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Yuji’s fear hangs in the air.
 
Earlier, a sharp, unknown pain pierced his head, accompanied by disturbing visions of great peril befalling the Jedi. It was a warning, one that carried ominous weight. But it wasn’t until he received the news that everything became clear.
 
The Jedi Order is gone. The dark side won.
 
How did everything end up like this? What went wrong? He had heard the news! The Lord of the Sith was dead,

slain

by none other than the Jedi Master, Satoru Gojo! It was supposed to signify the dawn of a new, great era!
 
For a thousand years, the Sith and Jedi Orders have been locked in an unrelenting war. The conflict has spanned countless worlds, with battles tearing through one planet after another. It’s a war of politics and shifting alliances, where sides are won and lost with every turn. Entire planets have been ravaged, their territories claimed, only to be lost and recaptured in an endless cycle of destruction.
 
Both sides have grown exhausted, their resources dwindling and their warriors falling one by one. The Jedi, striving to protect Force-sensitive infants, often find themselves in a desperate race against the Sith. Ever the cunning bunch, the Sith kidnaps these children to mold them into Sith Assassins and Inquisitors, furthering their dark cause. It is a race that feels morally fraught, even for the Jedi. To increase their numbers, they, too, bring Force-sensitive children to their temples, training them from a young age to join their ranks. The Sith mirror this practice, using it as their advantage to tip the scales in their endless battle against the Jedi.
 
The Jedi have fought countless battles. Some victorious, others lost to the cunning strategies of their enemies. Their survival to this day has relied heavily on the alliances they've forged with supportive planets across the galaxy. But now...
 
Jedi Padawan, Yuji Itadori, darted through the blaster doors of the Venator-Class Starship, desperately searching for an escape pod. His voice rang out over the halls, urging workers, fighters, and pilots to evacuate immediately as the Starship shuddered under relentless Sith bombardment. Their navigation systems had been compromised, coordinates leaked, leaving them vulnerable and exposed. Moments earlier, Yuji had received an urgent holo-comm transmission from fellow Padawan Kasumi Miwa. Her voice sounded gravely panicked, warning that the Jedi Temple had fallen under siege by the Sith and their forces. By the time she finished passing along the message, their ship was ambushed, surrounded in the blink of an eye.

“Padawan Yuji. You must retreat immediately.”

Yuji felt his heart sink. “What happened, Padawan Miwa?”

“The Jedi have fallen. The Sith breached the temple. We never saw it coming…”

It was the first time Yuji had ever witnessed a Jedi cry, even though it was just a hologram. And even through the flickering static of the hologram, Padawan Kasumi Miwa’s tears were unmistakable. Jedi were taught to master their emotions, to suppress them in the face of hardship. It’s a discipline essential to their path. But the tears tracing down her cheeks spoke of something far deeper… The looming end of her own life and the inevitable collapse of the Jedi Order.

“Please, be safe. May the force be with you.”

Yuji had been assigned to this Venator-Class Star Destroyer, stationed just above the planet Alderaan as a rendezvous point. His orders were clear. Wait for the return of his teacher, Jedi Master Satoru Gojo. As a Padawan, Yuji lacked the advanced training needed to venture deep into Sith territory, so Master Gojo had left him behind with a vital task, and that’s to safeguard Alderaan. The planet was considered a target after an intercepted Sith transmission hinted at a potential attack, and Yuji’s role was to stand watch and offer protection in his master’s absence.
 
Yet now, they find themselves caught off guard, utterly unprepared for the ambush hurtling toward them. The pilot and communications team should have intercepted any warning signs of enemy ships emerging from the hyperspace. But they didn’t. And now, the attack is upon them, sudden and merciless. Yuji Itadori has been trained to stay composed under pressure, but as a barely trained commander leading thousands of fighters and dozens of ships into battle, the weight of responsibility bears heavily on him. In moments like this, he struggles to find clarity, unsure of the right call to make.
 
But he knows, regardless, what he should do when he recognizes a losing battle.
 
“Come on, we need to go now!” Yuji urged the ship's commanding captain, who also served as both pilot and leader of an allied army closely tied to the Jedi. “We can't afford to stay here any longer!”
 
“I have to try!” the officer shouted, frantically pressing buttons as they struggled to regain control of the failing ship. “If I can just land a single hit on their supply ship ahead, we might deal a devastating blow to the Sith!”
 
“It’s pointless!” Yuji cried, his voice strained as he struggled to keep his balance against the ship’s unsteady movements. “Blowing up one supply ship won’t make a difference! If you come with me, we can regroup and fight another day!”
 
He’s wrong. The Jedi is losing.

The Jedi is gone.

The words of Padawan Miwa say it as much.
 
“No! I’m done hiding! I’m done losing!” The officer keeps his gaze averted, but Yuji can tell he’s crying. “If only I could… If only I could…!”
 
The blaring alarm pierces through the shuddering walls once more, a dire warning that the ship is on the verge of destruction. The reactor is critically damaged, teetering on the edge of an explosive meltdown. With blaster fire relentlessly hammering the hull, it’s only a matter of moments before the entire vessel is reduced to rubble, floating alone in the depths of space.

Unless they act fast.

“I won’t leave you!” Yuji exclaims, fully aware of the immense value this commanding officer holds. This man has secured countless victories for their cause over the past few decades.
 
But alas, as if resigned to the inevitable, recognizing a losing battle, the captain turns to meet Yuuji’s gaze and gives a solemn nod. “You must go, Commander. A captain stays with their ship until the end. This vessel has been my greatest service and steadfast companion, and it has been an honor to serve under you.”
 
“It doesn’t have to end like this!” Yuuji’s voice wavers with desperation, but his resolve remains firm. “Come with me! We can still make it out together. You can take to the skies and beyond again!”
 
“No, sir. It’s already too late,” the officer said, his voice tight with urgency, tears streaming down his cheeks. “I can try to slow the ship’s power core from overheating, b-buy you some time to escape… but it’s critical. It won’t hold much longer. You have to leave.

Now!”

“Captain…” Yuji murmured, his voice barely audible. But as he met the unwavering determination in the captain's gaze, he drew a deep breath and steadied himself. “Your service will not be forgotten. Thank you… Captain.” Yuji felt like a complete failure, losing hundreds of lives under his authority.
 
The captain gave one last solemn nod, and this time, he’s smiling. “It's been an honor working alongside the Jedi, Padawan Yuji.”
 
It's painful to leave, but with that, Yuji flees. Every bit of training and discipline drilled into him keeps him from selfishly pulling the Captain to safety, recognizing the sacrifice the Captain is making for him. But that was never the officer’s wish. Yuji has had conversations with the man before, saying that if he were to fall in battle, he would fall with his ship. And if that was his wish, then so be it. Yuji could do nothing but harden his heart and leave the man alone.
 
He could almost feel time ticking away, his skin crawling at the idea that the ship will blow in any second now, but somehow, he found one last escape pod, one that’s completely empty. It was probably left alone when the staff realized he was still on board. His own starfighter had been obliterated by the impact of blaster fire. The magnetic lock that keeps all starfighters on board the ship remained on the ground, but it had been shattered, sending his ship tumbling as the hull shook violently from the barrage. With no other options, he had no choice but to use the escape pod to flee.
 
With a heavy heart, Yuji propelled himself away, praying the enemy ship hadn’t noticed his escape. He closed his eyes, thoughts drifting to the captain, to Padawan Miwa. His master, who was likely in far greater danger than he is, deep within Sith territory, and unaware of the Jedi's grim fate. His thoughts lingered on the Jedi and the survivors… And himself.
 
He’s utterly alone, with no one left by his side. And he has no idea what comes next.
 
~~~
 
His escape pod is barely operational, suffering some damage from the violent shaking of the ship.
 
The lights had been flickering when he entered, but now they’re completely out. The ship is unable to jump to hyperspace, lacking both a functional hyperdrive and propulsion system. All that remains are some basic medical supplies and communication devices, but reaching out for help comes with risks. Any message he sends could be intercepted by the Sith or their allies, which may end up revealing his coordinates. He can’t use the system to contact the other escape pods either, as any signal would likely be detected by enemy forces.
 
It's dangerous. The Sith are undoubtedly tracking the remaining Jedi and their allies, but what other choice does he have? Starve? Without the advance training to use the Force to sustain himself for days, he's left vulnerable. And the Sith are still out there, hunting down escape pods that have ejected from their ships. It's only a matter of time before they find him as well.
 
Suddenly, his holo-pad beeped, and his heart raced. He activated it, nearly collapsing in relief as he saw a fellow Jedi survivor.
 
“Master Sukuna…”
 
And a Jedi he's fortunate to have make contact too. Among the strongest and most capable Jedi to emerge in millennia, Sukuna Ryomen stands alongside his master, Jedi Master Satoru Gojo, as a force to be reckoned with. His combat skills and sharp intellect have set a new standard for what it means to be a Jedi.

Headstrong, wise, and dependable,

such qualities are praised. Master Sukuna has earned the trust of many, which is why he's been entrusted with leading elite forces within the Jedi ranks. And his subordinates are willing to risk their lives under his command.
 
No mission he’s given has ever ended in failure. Under his leadership, victory is certain, regardless of the task at hand. Thanks to him and Master Gojo, the Jedi have been seeing success, gaining ground and favor for the first time in years, emerging victorious at every turn.
 
That’s why Yuji was confident the Jedi would prevail. They had two of the most brilliant minds the Order had ever known.
 
Yet, despite their presence, it seems the galaxy is still assured for an unexpected twist. With Master Ryomen still alive, there remains a slim hope that the Jedi could reclaim their power…

even if they are the last ones standing.

“Thank the Force, you’re safe!” The crackling of the hologram fills the air, but the relief in the Jedi Master’s voice is unmistakable. “Where are you?”
 
“The Alderaan system! I’m in an escape pod after… after the ship was destroyed,” Yuji says, struggling to steady his breathing. “The Sith and their allies may have already seized Alderaan, and now they’re hunting down the remaining escape pods. I… I fear this might be the end for me, Master.”
 
Yuji doesn’t often show weakness, but in the presence of this Jedi, it’s a different matter entirely. His relationship with Master Ryomen is complicated, to say the least.
 
As a youngling, Yuji was often told by his crèche-masters that a particular Jedi had kept a close eye on his progress, quietly overseeing his path to becoming a Padawan. The news was startling. Occasionally, Yuji would catch glimpses of the man, especially during his free time when he practiced basic lightsaber techniques. Yuji preferred to train in secluded spaces, away from prying eyes, swinging a practice stick with the goal of becoming one of the greatest lightsaber wielders. It was during these moments, as he honed his skill in isolation, that he would occasionally notice a familiar figure. Dark pink hair flickering past, or watching him from a distance.
 
At times, the Jedi Master would stop by to acknowledge him. Their conversations were brief, often limited to compliments and praise. Yuji couldn't help but dream that one day, he might stay long enough to teach him. But that never happened. He would only pass by, offering a nod of greeting, a word of encouragement for his hard work, or simply watching him from a distance with an unsettling quietness.
 
Sometimes it feels strange, but Yuji likes to believe that someone of the Master’s caliber is quietly observing the growth and development of every youngling. Willing to see how well they’ve been doing.
 
However, Yuji often asks the other fellow Jedi Initiates if they ever receive visits from the esteemed Master himself, only to be surprised when they don’t. This sparks a flurry of questions from the younglings, all curious about why such a renowned Jedi would take the time to meet with Yuji alone.
 
A very specific moment of the day he was promoted to Padawan came as a complete surprise. It was the last thing he had expected. He had imagined that a skilled Jedi Knight, someone like Nanami Kento or even the recently promoted Jedi Knight Ino Takuma, would be the one to take him on as a student. But for a

Jedi Master

to personally visit him and express the desire to mentor him? That was truly unexpected.
 
Yet, the Jedi Master to approach him was none other than Satoru Gojo.
 
At that time, Yuji was immersed in practicing with his newly acquired lightsaber, lost in focus well into the night. Sleep eluded him, his mind buzzing with the possibility of a promotion or finally becoming skilled enough to be a Padawan when the white-haired Jedi Master quietly approached him from behind.

“You know, I never planned to take you on as my student,” Master Gojo had remarked. “But I have no choice. If I don’t, you’ll end up learning under

him.

”

Yuuji had looked at him puzzingly.

“What do you mean, Master Gojo?”

“It was a pain!” Gojo exclaimed, groaning dramatically. “Not because I took you under my wing, but because Sukuna wouldn’t leave me alone! He kept picking fights, all because he somehow realizes I decided to make you my Padawan. The guy gets insanely jealous! Ugh!”

“I-Isn’t that unbecoming of a Jedi?”

“Oh, it does. But sometimes, dear Padawan, rivalry arises among Jedi Masters when we see great potential in the younglings. Sukuna never took on a student before, but during the Initiate Trials, he was… hmm, what’s the word? Driven? Attentive? Maybe too immersed in it? He watched closely, almost

too

closely. His focus was entirely on you. And I…” Master Gojo paused, his expression darkening. “I didn’t like that at all.”

Two Jedi Masters were fighting over him? That was flattering, at least in theory. But it didn’t sit well when Master Gojo used that tone. Yuji had been proud to learn that his training had progressed to the point where such renowned Jedi were considering him as their Padawan. Yet, when he saw the unreadable expression on Master Gojo’s face as he spoke about Master Ryomen, Yuji knew this was something he had to take seriously.

In some ways, Master Gojo’s words hold dark truth. Master Ryomen is unsettling. Their brief encounters seem insignificant, yet Yuji can’t help but wonder why that man is always lingering nearby. Why he’s always there, watching from the sidelines. Why his gaze lingers on Yuji with that unreadable expression, and why…

why does he look at him like that whenever their eyes meet?

“I had to step in, you know?” Master Gojo said with a wide grin. “Who knows what would’ve happened to you otherwise! You’d probably be eaten alive!” He gave Yuji's back a playful, yet firm pat as he chuckled.

The news was chilling, leaving Yuji with an uneasy feeling. There have been whispers that Master Ryomen might belong to an unknown species from a distant galaxy, despite his human appearance. The younglings often tell frightening stories, claiming he has two sets of arms and eyes. Yuji cast a wary glance at the tall, white-haired Master before him, his frown deepening. Secret clips from holo-pads was passed among the Initiates, showcasing the recorded battles of the Jedi. However, these clips often centered on Master Ryomen, especially after one distorted hologram surfaced, showing him fighting in the frontlines. In the footage, the Jedi seemed to possess not one, but two pairs of arms and eyes. According to the older Jedi Initiates that the footage was broken upon recording at that time. Thus, it became a popular horror tale ever since.

The following day, Master Gojo sought him out and led him to speak with the Grandmaster, who approved of this pairing. It was the same day the Jedi Council gathered to mark the occasion, designing Yuji’s long hair with a braid, symbolizing the transition from Initiate to Padawan. That day, Yuji officially became a remarkable Jedi Padawan, with a promise of more success in the future. However, the Jedi Council was not complete to see that transition.

Jedi Master, Sukuna Ryomen, did not attend after all.

Still, that didn’t stop Master Ryomen from frequently visiting the pair. Whenever missions called for highly skilled Jedi Knights or Masters to work together, Master Ryomen was always there. When Padawan Itadori and Master Gojo required assistance, it was Master Ryomen who answered the call. Even during important meetings, the unassuming Jedi would show up, whether his presence was needed or not. Perhaps it was simply that whenever Yuji was somewhere, Master Sukuna would surely be nearby. Although their interactions were short, it always felt like they had known each other for much longer, but not as friends. Instead, it was more like distant acquaintances who casually crossed paths, or colleagues who exchanged little more than a brief nod in passing.
 
Yuji had never been alone with Master Ryomen, not since he was a youngling. Gojo had always made sure of that, for reasons Yuji could never quite understand.
 
In a complicated way, Yuji feels at ease around him, but not to the point where he considers him a friend or someone he’d want to be around, nor someone he’d seek out for company.
 
There’s something unsettling about Master Ryomen. His presence feels… off. And simply so, whenever Yuji is near him, the air seems to thicken, as though a heavy, suffocating force surrounds him. It’s as if a dark miasma clings to the space, making Yuji feel like he's drowning, even though there’s no bodies of water in sight to be submerged in.
 
As a Padawan, Yuji has faced his share of battles against the Sith. Under the mentorship of Master Gojo, one of the most powerful Jedi alive. So it was inevitable that he would cross paths with the Sith. Many of them are far stronger than Yuji, yet he can hold his ground, knowing he has the support of those around him. However, he is not permitted to engage Sith Inquisitors on his own, let alone confront Sith Assassins and Knights. Only when accompanied by Jedi Masters or Knights, and backed by a formidable army allied with the Jedi, does he have any hope of standing a chance.

He’s a young student after all, still learning.

A time of battle against the Sith is all it takes for him to sense the darkness closing in, engulfing his soul, and leaving him feeling lost.
 
It was strange to experience such a feeling toward Sukuna Ryomen, a key figure in the Jedi Council and a highly valuable Jedi Master. Without him, the Jedi would have likely suffered significant losses in the war by now.
 
Sometimes, Yuji found himself questioning his teacher about it, but Master Gojo always kept quiet when serious topics arises. He’d also turned to his fellow Padawans for answers, but both Padawan Megumi and Nobara were just as in the dark. They didn’t spend much time around the elusive Jedi Master anyway, though they knew of him, they weren’t visited as often.

A clear proof that Master Ryomen only had eyes on him.

It left Yuji to remain uncertain, constantly theorizing, and, naturally, staying wary of the mysterious figure.
 
In this moment of crisis, however, Yuji found solace in the presence of one of the Jedi Order's most trusted Masters, and to his surprise, still

alive.

That is more important than paying attention to the alarms blaring on his mind.
 
“I cannot allow that, Padawan,” Master Ryomen said, his voice as stern and unwavering as ever. His presence was commanding, his form strong and unyielding. He wore a garment unlike any the Jedi Masters typically don, a dark hood concealing his face, making him impossible to read.

Was he hiding behind the cloak, perhaps to remain unseen? It seemed likely now that they were being hunted.

“I’ve locked onto your coordinates. I’ll be there as quickly as possible.”
 
“But Master…” Yuji stiffens, a dark presence weighing heavily around him. He recognizes it instantly.

He’s been detected.

A Sith is near. “They’ve found me. I fear it’s already too late.”
 
With a heavy sigh, he ignites his lightsaber, the blue glow casting flickering shadows on the small walls.
 
He won’t go down without a fight, even if his escape pod is torn to pieces by the enemy’s blaster fire.
 
“Padawan—” His Master’s voice is cut off as Yuji switches off his holo-pad.

This is goodbye, Master…

He feels the presence of a ship nearby, hovering ominously. It’s likely owned by an Inquisitor, or perhaps a Sith Knight. He doesn’t know what happened to the other escape pods, but he’d hoped some had escaped or completely unnoticed. Unfortunately, his own fate doesn’t share the same as them.
 
Out of nowhere, a ship appeared by the window, blocking the lovely view of the stars. Yuji tenses, instinctively falling into Form I,

Shii-Cho.

It was a form he had used a lot as a youngling, back when he was just starting his training. But he had only recently become a Padawan and still hadn’t chosen the right form for himself as he learns. Sadly, there was no time left for that. If this was to be his final stand, he would face it with unwavering resolve.
 
The enemy ship before him shifted abruptly. Its thrusters powered down, and the sleek, likely newly constructed starship suddenly sprouted thick, distinct walls along its sides. On the other end, a door is shown. Despite the unfamiliar machinery, Yuji recognized the design. The walls extended and latched onto his escape pod, securing it in place. Then, a laser shot from the ship’s side, slicing through the pod’s wall and window. It formed a hole, just wide enough for the enemy to breach.

I see,

Yuuji mused, t

he Inquisitor would rather want to fight me themselves than simply shoot me and take this pod down.

The doors of the enemy ship hissed open, and from within, an Inquisitor stepped out, his lightsaber casting a menacing red glow.
 
Yuji swallows hard.

And it looks like it’s one of the most formidable Inquisitors too.

The Inquisitor is a Changeling, hailing from the Clawdite lineage, or perhaps a distant line, renowned for their ability to shapeshift and mimic humanoid forms. However, this one carries a mix of something unfamiliar to Yuji. Yet, despite the strange appearance, he knows exactly who this is, or more accurately, who they were. This Inquisitor has been a persistent thorn in the side of many Jedi Knights, notorious for their brutal efficiency in hunting down Padawans and slaying countless Jedi.
 
“Ah, one of the last Padawans standing,” the Inquisitor sneers, his footsteps slow and deliberate as he draws closer to Yuji. The red glow of his lightsaber clashes against the blue of Yuji’s. “It’s amusing, isn’t it, to think that just because you took down our Sith Lord that it means it’s over.”
 
“And it should have been,” Yuji says with unwavering confidence, standing tall and resolute. “Jedi Master Gojo Satoru is formidable. No matter the odds. He was sent to eliminate your Lord, and now that you have no master, your empire will crumble.”
 
“Did he, though?” The Inquisitor’s grin widened, dark and knowing. “Are you absolutely sure he’s the one who brought down that old man?”
 
Yuji’s heart skips a beat, his mind racing.

What was that supposed to mean?

“I've heard from a reliable source. Master Gojo has succeeded.”
 
The Inquisitors scoffed, their laughter filling the air. “You fool!

It was our plan that succeeded.

We intentionally gave you false coordinates, leading your precious

‘strongest Jedi’

to the wrong planet. And now, your Master is dead.”

That… That can’t be!

Countless plans had been set in motion. The intel alone had come from Master Ryomen himself, who confirmed that the coordinates pinpointed the exact location of the Sith Lord’s secret lair! Jedi Masters and Knights, led by Master Gojo, had gathered to confront the Sith Lord, and the Sith were completely unaware of the impending attack. It was a surprise ambush, one that the Jedi executed with overwhelming success.
 
But with so many Jedi Masters and Knights departing the Jedi Temple, its defenses grew thin, leaving only a handful to protect the younglings. Despite the declaration that the Sith Lord had been slain, the Temple was suddenly attacked.

Could it be that Master Ryomen’s intel had been wrong all this time? No, that simply can’t be! He’s always been reliable and trustworthy! Never once making a mistake!

As if sensing Yuji’s confusion and the horror settling in his expression, the Inquisitor spoke with glee. “The Sith Lord is dead, yes. But it wasn’t Gojo who struck him down.”
 
Yuji is stunned and terrified, his voice shaking. “W-What… What’s happened?”
 
“You foolish Jedi walked straight into a trap,” the Inquisitor snickers, clearly amused by the look of shock on Yuji’s face. “The moment they set foot on that planet, it was already too late. The planet

detonated,

leaving nothing behind.

Boom!

Dust particles everywhere!

What a sight to behold!

They never even had time to feel the disturbance in the Force. One moment, they were there, and the next… nothing.”
 
Yuji’s heart sank as the Inquisitor pressed on. “It was the most effective way to eradicate your best Jedi yet. And

ah~

The Sith Lord is gone. A new one has risen to take his place.”

How? How could this have happened?

Everything had been meticulously planned. Master Ryomen’s coordinates had been verified by many people at once, and they all agreed without a doubt that it led to the heart of the Sith’s lair. Master Ryomen was known for his reliability, he would

never

mislead them. He remains ever watchful and sharp, insisting that his sources present the absolute truth, free from any trace of error. Numerous alliances had conducted their own research, confirming that this was indeed the right location. That’s why Yuji is alone on the ship, why the Temple is eerily empty. But most importantly…

They had made sure no Sith Apprentice would ever rise again.

The best of the Siths have been struck down by Master Gojo and Master Ryomen, ensuring that the Sith Lord would never find an apprentice to succeed him, let alone a more powerful Sith worthy of becoming his student. And yet, here the news stands. A new Dark Lord rises to claim the throne. The Sith Apprentice has ascended, and with it, the Sith Order reshapes itself. The Jedi have fallen, leaving a galaxy in turmoil, steeped in imbalance and chaos.
 
“You look familiar. You’re Gojo’s Padawan, aren’t you?” The Inquisitor purred, raising his lightsaber to strike down the trembling Yuji. “Don’t fret. I’ll send you to join your little Jedi crew soon enough.

Farewell~”

It’s a pathetic and sad ending. As a Jedi, Yuji was conditioned to endure immense stress and urgency. His training taught him that, no matter the circumstances, he must always detach from his emotions and remain one with the Force. Preparedness was key, as outlined by Jedi protocol. Emotions, he was taught, may cloud judgment and lead to the darkness of the Force. Close attachments were forbidden for this very reason since such bonds could lead a Jedi down a dangerous path. Many had fallen to this temptation, even becoming Inquisitors themselves. This was a lesson the Grandmaster often shared with the younglings, warning them of the fate they must avoid.
 
Feelings must be devoid in the peak of dire circumstances, but Yuji can’t shake the overwhelming emotions. Grief, sadness, fear, and a sense of hopelessness. All their efforts as Jedi... ultimately wasted.
 
His form falters, exposing him to incoming attacks.
 
As the Inquisitor raises his lightsaber to strike, he suddenly pauses. His gaze shifts toward the ceiling, sensing a formidable presence outside.
 
Yuji sensed it too.
 
Another ship arrived. The escape pod trembles, and Yuji hears a familiar hum from the engines, similar of the sound when the Inquisitor’s vessel docked with the pod.
 
It happens too fast. A sudden wave of dread swept through the air, causing Yuji to inhale sharply, the weight of it pressing down on him. It enveloped him completely, dark and suffocating, like a heavy blanket. The feeling wrapped around him, soft yet oppressive, as though he were being cocooned in darkness. It was a presence that cast a shadow over the entire space, leaving only an overwhelming sense of entrapment.
 
And he wasn't alone in feeling this way. The Inquisitor sensed the darkness as well and instinctively stepped back, startled.
 
“W-Why… Why is he… here?” The Inquisitor whispered, pupils shaking, then, in the blink of an eye, deactivated his lightsaber and dropped to one knee. His body trembled as he bowed his head low. “I beg your forgiveness, my Lord!”
 
But Yuji couldn’t hear him. His senses were overwhelmed, consumed by the vast, suffocating darkness that surrounded them.
 
Suddenly, a blue lightsaber pierced the wall behind Yuji, its hilt jutting out menacingly. The sharp crack of the strike snapped him out of his stupor, and he swiftly turned to face the newcomer. The Inquisitor remained kneeling, visibly trembling. The lightsaber sliced through the wall, its tip carving a perfect circle, large enough to pass a frame through. As the blade finished its cut, the circle in the wall crumpled away, leaving a gaping hole in its place.
 
The raw power of the Force is undeniable, capable of achieving such feats.
 
The crumbled section of the wall, now reduced to a twisted circle of metal, was tossed aside as a familiar figure emerged from the gaping hole.
 
Yuji relaxes, a weight lifting off his shoulders, though the encroaching darkness still presses in around him. “Master Ryomen…”
 
Their gazes locked immediately, and the stern, stone-like expression of the Jedi Master softened. “Brat…” Without hesitation, Master Ryomen stepped closer, his hand reaching out to gently caress Yuji's cold cheek. Yuji drew in a sharp breath at the sudden proximity and the touch on his skin, nearly taking a step back. “You're safe now. It's over,” he murmured, his thumb gently tracing the curve of Yuji's cheek.
 
The concerned look on the Jedi Master's face is flattering, but the distance between them was a bit  too much. Yuji can’t even step back when his Master’s figure forced himself on his space.

This doesn’t feel right.

It’s too intimate, like they were lovers long separated, finally reunited after a long absence.
 
Yuji observes his Master closely. His robes are slightly disheveled, like he's faced countless battles. Yet, there isn't a single grime or wound in sight. Despite surviving the harshest of conflicts against the hoards of Sith, he appears almost unnervingly pristine. Surely reaching this point must’ve been far from easy, especially with the relentless opposition of the Sith. Although Yuji is grateful that his Master is not being pursued, nothing seems

different…

except for one thing.
 
“M-Master… What happened to your eyes?”
 
Before Yuji could properly look at him, Master Ryomen steps back, his attention shifting. There is little to no light being provided, thus Yuji is worried if an injury did occur on his Master.

His eyes look different after all.

Instead of answering, however, the Jedi Master surveys the scene before him, then lowers his hood. His once-soft expression hardens, revealing not an ounce of emotion, and he grips his lightsaber tightly, its blade glowing a fierce blue. “I’m fortunate to arrive when I did, Padawan Yuji… Or else your life might have been claimed by none other than this slithering worm,

Mahito.”

With the Inquisitor’s name mentioned, he opted to speak, a grave mistake on his part. “My Lor—”
 
“Silence, vermin,” the Jedi Master spat, his fury now evident. A stark deviation from the Jedi way when he shouldn’t even possess such emotion in this state. “You’re nothing but a coward, always preying on the Padawans. I don’t think you recall,” Sukuna’s eyes gleamed with a sharp, lethal intensity, “that you were ordered not to harm

this one.”

“Y-Yes—” Before the Inquisitor could finish his sentence, Sukuna Ryomen raised his lightsaber with blinding speed, slashing through the Inquisitor's arm, the same one gripping the weapon. A sharp cry of agony escaped the Sith as he collapsed to his knees, his forehead hitting the floor in pain. Instinctively, he reached up to grasp the empty space where his arm had been.
 
“Speak again, and I’ll cast you suffocating into space rather than grant you a swift death.”
 
But the Inquisitor continues to groan, unable to focus on the words of the one meant to end his life.
 
“Master…” Yuji’s body tenses, his disbelief evident in the way his eyes lock onto the scene. The power radiating from Master Ryomen is undeniable. Such strength that even an Inquisitor is compelled to kneel, pleading for mercy or a swift end instead of engaging in battle. When Master Ryomen speaks the name ‘Mahito,’ a sudden realization strikes Yuji, that even though he knew who this Sith was, only just realized the power this creature possess. The name echoes in his memory, linked to a hologram projection he once saw. A series of clips and reports from allied officers and Jedi Knights, detailing a notorious Inquisitor known for hunting Jedi Padawans. This relentless warrior was renowned for his ability to take on Jedi with exceptional skill, never surrendering, always adapting with tricks and cunning. Even when the odds were stacked against him, Mahito would fight to the bitter end, never yielding to anyone, regardless of their rank.

“He’s just as stubborn and determined!”

Master Gojo had once remarked, briefly glancing away from the hologram to flash Yuji a playful smile.

“Reminds me of you, Padawan.”

Yuji remembers cringing, almost gagging at the thought.
 
However…
 
To witness him brought

so low.

To hear him plead for mercy. To beg for a swift end. All directed at another Jedi, Sukuna Ryomen—A Jedi master, no less than that... is truly unexpected.
 
Sukuna Ryomen is feared across the galaxy for his unmatched prowess in battle. His reputation as an invincible Jedi precedes him, with countless challengers seeking to break his record, only to be swiftly defeated by his masterful skill and tactical brilliance. Now, Mahito kneels before him, fully aware of the futility of the fight. There is no chance for victory against with the likes of Sukuna Ryomen, the Jedi whose legend remains undeniable and unshakable.
 
Perhaps that's the case, but Yuji feels there's something more beneath the surface.
 
“Th-this… this isn’t the Jedi way,” Yuji stammers, torn between retreating from the suffocating darkness around him or stepping forward to shake his Master from this sinister trance.
 
He had heard many stories and rumors, both as a Jedi Initiate and later as a Padawan. Even his teacher had confirmed some of them. Sukuna Ryomen have once dabbled with the dark side of the Force and had supposedly redeemed himself by remaining loyal to the Jedi. As a youngling, Yuji often heard tales of Master Ryomen's struggles with his emotions. Even when he became a Knight, Ryomen’s temper was known to be his greatest challenge, and his strained relationships with many of his fellow Jedi were a result of this. There were stories of his explosive anger; how he once destroyed an entire army of formidable sentients who posed a grave threat to the Jedi. Other tales spoke of him laughing maniacally as he decimated a nation, leaving no trace of its existence. And there was the terrifying news of him, consumed by unrestrained rage, destroying a Venator-Class ship with nothing but the Force. Some of these were mere rumors, unverified and far-fetched. But as Yuji stood before the Master, he couldn’t help but feel that there was truth in them, especially when he sensed the cold, seething rage emanating from Sukuna.
 
“You’re right. It’s not,” Master Ryomen replied coldly, his gaze fixed on the Sith before him, eyeing Mahito with such disdain it was as if he were no more than an annoying pest. “But the Jedi are no more.”

What?

Yuji takes a step back despite the lack of space, caught off guard by his Master’s words, so unexpected and blunt. He had assumed his Master would retreat, let go, and move on, continuing their fight for survival, as they were likely the last Jedi standing. But before Yuji could even react, the Jedi Master raised his lightsaber with such fluidity and precision that the hum of the blade filled the small space, reaching Mahito’s neck before Yuji had a chance to fully process it.
 
Yuji gasps in shock as Mahito’s head separates from his body. Sukuna remains standing, clearly unaffected, as though he hadn’t moved at all.
 
“Come, Yuji. We need to get somewhere safe.” He didn’t bother glancing back to check if Yuji was following. The Padawan remained frozen, still reeling from how mercilessly his Master had ended the Inquisitor’s life without a second thought.
 
Yuji had seen this Jedi in action before, but never with such brutality. The man usually kept to the shadows, content to stay close to Yuji when the man realizes that the Padawan is present. But now, Yuji realizes the truth. This Jedi had merely been holding back.

Perhaps to avoid making Yuji fear him.

The difference between Satoru Gojo and Sukuna Ryomen couldn’t be clearer. Where the white-haired Jedi would never resort to directly kill, let alone decapitating an Inquisitor, without a moment’s hesitation to either flee or subdue the Sith, Master Sukuna does the opposite. Swift, efficient, and merciless.
 
Maybe those stories weren’t merely cautionary lessons to frighten younglings, but fragments of a deeper truth.

Sukuna Ryomen had never truly abandoned the dark side, nor ceased practicing its forbidden arts.

There’s little time to dwell on the weight of it all. The key to this new challenge lies in survival, by living long enough to see the dawn rise for the Jedi once again. They may have lost now, but for the moment, they must remain hidden, waiting for a better age to emerge. Yuji cannot afford to linger on the burdens his Master now carries. What truly matters is ensuring that the legacy of the Jedi endures, to be passed on to the future.
 
Without looking back at the lifeless body of the Inquisitor, Yuji heads toward the hole carved by the Jedi. The rest of the Sith would undoubtedly come searching, and staying here any longer would be a mistake.
 
Master Ryomen had discovered a sizable ship, large enough to fit his personal starfighter. It’s designed to be operated by a crew of six, it could serve as a reliable means of escape if used correctly. The ship was larger than an Omicron-Class Attack Shuttle, yet its design was new and unfamiliar.
 
As a Padawan, Yuji had been trained to recognize the various ships used by the Jedi and their allies, a skill crucial for distinguishing friend from foe. Yet, this vessel baffled him. It bore no resemblance to anything he’d studied. Where Master Ryomen had acquired it remained a mystery. Perhaps he had access to resources unknown to the Jedi, crafting a vessel tailored to his own preferences.

Ever the cunning one,

he had clearly prepared for circumstances such as these.
 
The tension in the air isn't easy to ignore, but as Yuji settles into the co-pilot’s chair, his gaze shifts to his Master, who moves with a calm vigilance, seemingly unfazed by the impending rise of a new Sith-dominated era.
 
“Master…”
 
“Yes, Padawan?” Master Ryomen replied, his face still turned away, concealed from Yuji's view.
 
“The Jedi… Have we truly lost?” Yuji’s voice trembles, a mix of fear and despair weighing heavily in each word. The disbelief is unmistakable. He shouldn't linger on such feelings, but Yuji lacks the will to accept a cruel fate.
 
The Jedi paused mid-motion, his gaze fixed on the brilliant stars sparkling beyond the window. “I believe so, my Padawan. But do not fear this change. If anything, you may find yourself

embracing

it.”
 
Yuji's brow knitted in confusion. “W-What do you mean?” This wasn’t exactly a comforting change, not when they were already being hunted.
 
“Everything will make sense soon enough. For now, let’s hit the hyperdrive.”

Ah, ever the serious and confusing one. Never letting such chaos shake his resolve.

It's not an answer Yuji wanted, but after recognizing the man's qualities, this mysterious attitude had somehow brought the Jedi to many victories, so he easily brush the confusion away. It's no wonder he's such a brilliant strategist, Yuji thought, a weak smile tugging at his lips as he admired the calm demeanor of the Jedi Master. “Master…”
 
“Hm?”
 
“Don’t blame yourself.”
 
This made Sukuna pause, his head tilting slightly in Yuji's direction without meeting his gaze. “Blame myself?”
 
“You’re not really… looking at me.” Yuji looks out at the stars as well, his expression heavy with defeat. There must be a reason why the Jedi Master is hiding his face from him. “You must feel ashamed. Probably think you’ve failed, helpless even, with everyone gone. But you shouldn’t feel that way, Master.”
 
Sukuna stays quiet, and Yuji takes it as an invitation to keep going. “You’re still trying, still doing everything you can, and... well, you saved me. I was seconds away from dying, but you came for me. Just because you couldn’t save everyone else doesn’t make you weak, Master.” Yuji offers a faint smile. “Your efforts matter. You survived and still chose to help. So, thank you, Master.”
 
The Jedi Master remains frozen, and Yuji senses disbelief, perhaps even a quiet gratitude that his efforts have not gone unnoticed, despite the overwhelming peril that surrounds them. But now is not the time for weakness or grief, Yuji reminds himself. There is still much to be done as the last of the Jedi. They can fight once more, survive another day, and seek out others to bring justice to the galaxy. Yuji cannot afford for his Master to lose the will to fight, nor to give in to despair, especially when he himself feels the weight of loss pressing down, the absence of his fallen comrades lingering in his heart.
 
Padawan Megumi Fushiguro, Nobara Kugisaki, Maki Zenin, Toge Inumaki, and countless others. Jedi Knights like Nanami Kento, Ino Takuma, Kinji Hakari, and Yuta Okkotsu... Not to mention the esteemed Jedi Masters, Iori Utahime, Ieri Shoko, and Satoru Gojo… They all rely on them both.
 
Countless Jedi Padawans, Knights, and Masters have fallen, and their legacy now rests on the shoulders of those who remain. The Sith may have triumphed for now, but Yuji’s unwavering resolve drives him to do whatever it takes to lead the galaxy into an era of lasting peace and justice. One where the shadow of war no longer looms over everyone.
 
Yuji keeps his head held high, but his thoughts are interrupted when Master Sukuna Ryomen shifts in his seat and…

lets out a chuckle.

Yuji blinks, confused.

What’s so amusing?

Without warning, the man before him erupted in laughter, causing Yuji to recoil in surprise.

What’s so funny?

Yuji pales at the sight.
 
Yuji was simply sharing his honest thoughts, trying to understand how the events they had endured could lead the strong, undefeated Jedi Master, celebrated for his countless victories, into darkness. It was a path that seemed destined to break him. Yuji had felt a moment of shock when Mahito, the Inquisitor, revealed the grand plan aboard the escape pod. His heart felt heavy, and his mind was clouded with negativity, leaving him vulnerable and on the verge of being struck down. It was only thanks to the intervention of this Jedi Master that he was spared from such a fate. Yuji understood the weight of the burden, recognizing that, despite the immense power Master Sukuna holds, even he couldn’t always save those who needed help the most. Satoru Gojo often spoke of this burden too, admitting that while his strength was great, it still fell short when it came to reaching those who truly needed saving.
 
Countless Jedi have faced such fates. Even the newly promoted Jedi Knight, Yuta Okkotsu, had shared this insight with Yuji. Despite being a year older and still young himself, Yuta had already achieved the rank of Jedi Knight, and, with his strength rivaling that of a Jedi Master, he expressed a deep understanding of Master Gojo’s burdens. Many planets sought for their help, and oftentimes, the Jedi couldn’t help them on time.

It was heartbreaking.

Even someone like Sukuna Ryomen, renowned for his achievements, was bound to feel it. Yuji could certainly feel it himself now, a weight pressing on him. Born with the power to save the galaxy as a Force-sensitive, he had the potential to make a difference, to help those in need. Yet here he was, standing in the midst of chaos aboard the spaceship, feeling utterly helpless and powerless.
 
But the man before him…

No, he must have lost his mind,

Yuji thought, his face twisted in a disturbed expression as he watched the man before him

laugh

uncontrollably, to the point his hands clutches his stomach.
 
“Oh, Yuji…” The Jedi Master dabbed at his eyes, his joyful tears falling away as his laughter softened to a fond chuckle. “You’re cute.”
 
That’s when Yuji sees it.

Those sickening, golden Sith eyes.

Yuji stands up from his seat in shock the second his brain registers the sight.

What's going on?

When the Master first appeared, his arrival was shrouded in darkness. The lights of the escape pod had been damaged, leaving only the eerie glow from the Inquisitor’s ship to illuminate the scene. Even then, Master Ryomen’s eyes had always been peculiar, reminiscent of Yuji’s own light brown eyes that could easily be mistaken for the Sith’s, something many younglings had teased him about. The Master’s eyes, however, were darker, occasionally tinged with red under harsh light or dark blue when the Jedi had been assigned to be submerged in the waters of Mon Cala during a mission.
 
But now… Now it’s clear.
 
Yuji’s eyes never lie, and so does the force.
 
The oppressive atmosphere returns, engulfing him like an all-consuming embrace. The possessiveness of it leaves him stunned, caught in disbelief. The darkness is all around him, even when unseen. It’s suffocating, foreboding, and lethal. It smothers the light of the Force that still burns within Yuji. The Jedi Master—no,

the Sith

—remains seated, soaking it all in, enjoying even, as Yuji's resolve crumbles. Sukuna watches, his sharp yellow eyes gleaming with amusement, his elbow resting casually on the armrest as he observes Yuji’s inner turmoil, a smug smirk playing on his lips.
 
Yuji knew this sensation all too well.

This presence…!

It surrounds him, overwhelming him! Even as a youngling, he should have recognized it. How had he missed it back then? It was so clear!
 
Each time Sukuna draws near, Yuji can’t help but feel the weight of his presence, a suffocating aura that lingers in the air. Had he been concealing the true color of his eyes all this time? Had the Jedi Order been in danger long before Yuji ever became a Padawan? And what of his teacher…

No…

Master Gojo must’ve sensed something was off, yet even he couldn’t believe what he was seeing. The many conversations he’d had with Yuji about Sukuna Ryomen often left him unsettled. Master Satoru must’ve known. He had kept Yuji at a distance for a reason. It was why he’d warned Yuji so many times to stay away from Sukuna, to never be in the same space as him. But if Master Gojo had known all along, then why hadn’t he—
 
Influence.
 
Yuji released a shaky breath in realization.
 
Sukuna Ryomen holds far more influence than Satoru Gojo. While Master Gojo is widely praised for his strength, his impulsive nature often earns the disapproval of the Jedi Council. Jedi Masters Yoshinobu, Yaga, and Utahime have frequently voiced their frustration with Master Gojo’s childish behavior. In contrast, Sukuna, though equally fiery in temper, knows how to reign in his emotions in times of need. His tactical mind and efficiency have earned him more respect, making him a more reliable and successful figure in the Jedi Order.

A soldier true and thorough.

Sukuna is often sought after for political matters, and his ability to lead has made him more favored, even within the Jedi Alliance. A master strategist, Sukuna gets things done, no matter the cost. If an enemy must be eliminated, he does so without hesitation or remorse. As the undisputed master of his domain, Sukuna stands as the true leader.
 
While Master Satoru Gojo is as talented as Master Sukuna, he is far less inclined to follow the rules. He acts with pure intentions, but this often leads him to break rules. Even though he’s a constant headache for the council, his presence is invaluable. Master Gojo is deeply compassionate, taking time to mentor his students—more than five, in fact—teaching them to resist the corruption that taints the Jedi Council and stay true to the original Jedi code. Through Gojo's guidance, Yuji begins to see just how deceptive and harsh the Council can be, and how his teacher has freed him from their controlling grasp.
 
Which is why Sukuna Ryomen is more favored between the two.
 
It must have been a heavy burden. Satoru Gojo had known this truth all along, perhaps even sharing it with the Council. But they refused to listen, dismissing or failing to believe the true identity of the great Jedi Master, Sukuna Ryomen. Without the Council's support, who could say the Alliance would fare any differently? Sukuna Ryomen, this vile

Sith,

has them wrapped around his fingers. And now... their lives have paid the price.
 
Yuji grieved for his teacher, grieved for the Jedi. And for himself.
 
As he stands face to face with none other than the true Sith.
 
“You’ve always been the slowest of the bunch,” Sukuna breaks the silence, rising from his seat. “It certainly doesn’t put you among the ranks of top learners. But…” He smirks, his gaze sharpening with a hint of satisfaction. “I suppose that can be overlooked when you looked so…

captivating

the first time I saw you.”
 
A shiver runs down Yuji's spine as he takes a cautious step back, the weight of fear hanging in the air. But Sukuna notices the movement just as clearly as he feels the raw fear emanating from him.
 
“Walking away from me again, hm?” Sukuna scoffs, brows furrowed,  his face twisted into a mock expression of hurt. “Why must you leave so soon? I’ve always hated it, you know... especially when that insufferable, blue-eyed fool kept taking you away from me.”
 
“Don’t insult him,” Yuji retorts, though his words lack conviction, his fear still holding him back as he takes another cautious step away from the man.
 
“He always meddles in matters that don't concern him.” He growls, the mere thought of the Jedi Master, Gojo, seeming to cause him to revolt in disgust. “He knew exactly how much I wanted you for myself, yet he continues to take. What a loathsome man he is.”
 
“Because he knew you'd turn me to the dark side!” Yuji yells, his fingers swiftly gripping his lightsaber as he ignites it, assuming his stance. The blue glow fills the space, casting an almost serene light, but it only deepens the Sith's ominous presence. “That man saved me from that wretched fate!”
 
“And where did that lead him, hm? Ah, yes.” The Sith grins, his expression twisted with dark satisfaction. “To dust! Reduced to atoms, taking the rest of the Jedi down with him!”
 
“You…!” Yuji’s grip on his lightsaber is tight as rage filled him. “You! We trusted you!”
 
The sight only fuels Sukuna's satisfaction. “Good, brat, good,” he murmurs, a low chuckle escaping his lips as he watches the Padawan seethe with uncontrolled rage. “Feel that anger. That hatred. Let it take you, just as my desire for you does.”

No…

No!

Yuji control yourself!

‘Don’t let the dark side consume you, my Padawan.’

The words echoed in his mind, like Master Satoru Gojo’s voice were right beside him. Soft and almost ethereal, the voice felt like a comforting presence, a reminder to stay on the right path. The familiar warning pulled Yuji back from the edge, bringing with it memories of his great teacher and the realization of what he was truly feeling.
 
His teacher is no longer here and will never know, he unknowingly saved Yuji once more.

Master Gojo… if only you were here to guide me.

With that thought, Yuji releases the anger within him, breaking free from the suffocating grip of the dark side that had threatened to consume him.
 
The Sith felt it as well, raising an eyebrow in intrigue. “Oh? Impressive, my Padawan. Letting go of such hatred while immersed in the depths of darkness takes great skill, and one that few ever truly master.”
 
“I’m not your Padawan,” Yuji snarls, his teeth clenched. “I’m Yuji Itadori, a Jedi of the light!”
 
Yuji swings upward, the tip of his lightsaber making precise contact with the air vents, releasing a burst of white smoke that surges toward them. The distraction is enough for him to sprint away, slamming open the blast doors and sabotaging the keypad, ensuring the Sith will struggle to open it. But Yuji knows it won’t hold for long. The blast doors are fragile and can easily be torn down with the power of the Force.
 
The ship is big enough to have many things at once, including a lone starfighter, on standby.
 
Yuji rushes to the starfighter and climbs in without hesitation. It’s a new model, though its design reminds him of the V-19 Torrent Starfighter he’s seen Jedi Knight Nanami Kento pilot. The controls are different, with fewer buttons and a different steering system, but Yuji adapts quickly. Though he's unfamiliar with this type of ship, knowing it's a recent creation of the Sith, possibly crafted for Sukuna—who's renowned for his piloting skills and even built his own ship—Yuji realizes it could be a valuable asset for him, at least for now.
 
He’ll deal with the tracking device later, but for now, his priority is escaping.
 
Time is running out. Yuji scrambles, activating the thrusters without hesitation, feeling a brief sense of relief. He quickly powers up the vents, preparing the systems. With a swift press of the buttons, he connects the starfighter to the magnetic shields, praying he can release the ray shields and break free. As the shields deactivate, the vacuum of space begins to pull everything out of the ship, but the starfighter stubbornly remains grounded. Without wasting a moment, Yuji slams the canopy shut, releases the magnet, fires up the engine, and lifts off.
 
Without warning, the starfighter comes to a complete stop. Yuji, caught off guard, pushes hard on the steering wheel, cranking up the power core to boost the thrusters. Yet, the starfighter stays frozen in mid-air.
 
The starfighter gradually drifted backward on its own. Yuji’s eyes shot wide in shock.

No… No, this can't be happening!

Yuji pushes the starfighter harder, desperate to get further and further away. The ship groans and whines under the strain, being pulled and pushed, its power core on the verge of overheating, but Yuji doesn’t care. The thrusters struggle, weakened by the pull of the dark side of the Force.
 
This isn’t merely a malfunction of the ship. It’s the Sith himself halting its progress. Using the dark side of the Force with such intensity that Yuji struggles to regain control.

Pulling and pulling Yuji closer, not letting him escape.

Immediately, Yuji could sense

him

crawling in his mind.

“Yuji…”

“No, no, no, no!”

Yuji cries, pushing buttons to increase the speed.

“Stop this nonsense, and things will be simpler for you.”

“No, no! Please, stop!”

“I will keep you safe.”

“Please, Master Gojo,”

Yuji whimpers.

“Help me!”

“Only I will answer to you now.”

A button glows red. Yuji catches sight of the laser blasters out of the corner of his eye.

"Submit to me, and your safety will be assured."

Without a second thought, Yuji presses the button. The ship’s blasters hum as it swivels, locking onto the target behind him.
 
Yuji sensed a spike of fury and realization from the dark side over what he just did.

“You damn brat!”

With few choices remaining, Yuji opens fire, the shots blasting from the machinery to hit the target behind him. He can feel Sukuna using the Force to shield himself from the barrage, but that’s all Yuji needs.

“No!”

The Padawan engages the thrusters, sending the ship into a sudden boost, and within seconds, the vast expanse of hyperspace swallows him whole. Yuji feels the darkness that was previously wrapped around his form, leaving him. His heart pounds relentlessly, weighed down by the haunting thought of the Jedi's downfall, how their own light had unknowingly nurtured the darkness that now consumes them.
 
~~~

Yuji’s nightmares felt distorted and surreal. It’s… unusual.

As a Padawan, he is meant to prepare for a promising future, honing his skills to become one of the greatest Jedi. But the nightmares from the night before only made things more difficult.

He was meant to be meditating, but the weight of exhaustion pulled at him, causing his mind to wander. Before long, he drifted into sleep. It was considered poor manners, but after the grueling training with Master Gojo, he was too drained to focus on reflecting over the day's mission and battles.

Perhaps nightmare were the wrong word to use it. No… He had

visions

last night.

Numerous ones too, as it flashed scene after scene at him. Yuji could see Master Ryomen standing beside him, a red lightsaber gripped in his hand. The scene shifts, and suddenly, a planet is exploding into fragments. It was blurry but bright. Another transition and the Jedi Temple burns in a cascade of flames. Then, another vision forms, this time of a tall figure with a face obscured by shadows.

"Who are you?" Yuji asks, and surprisingly, it was his own voice that was used.

The figure, cloaked in darkness, responds, “I am Darth Malvior.”

The visions come in rapidly, too quick, too many for Yuji to follow. They blur together, fragments he can barely grasp. And now, as he wakes, most of it slips from his memory, leaving only the haunting echoes of what he saw.

There’s one scene, however, that haunts him the most.

It is of himself, viewed from a third-person perspective, his face stricken with fear as he is held tightly, almost possessively, by the same figure cloaked in darkness. Only the unmistakable yellow Sith eyes watching him, intense and unblinking, can be seen from the blur. Their lips pressed together.

When Yuji awoke, the first sensation that hit him was fear, quickly followed by a sharp, unyielding pain coursing through his mind.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

A young pink-haired student curiously walks just a bit closer. “Grandmaster Tengen,” Yuji asked, “Who is this Jedi?” His tiny finger points at a specific hologram recording, which currently displays a rather skilled Jedi, and one who effortlessly wields his blue lightsaber against a sparring droid with lightning-fast precision.

The magnificent display of skill was impressive. Yuji’s eyes always widen in awe as he watches the Jedi train. His strikes are powerful, relentless, and truly marvelous. Not a hint of hesitation restrains him as he swiftly evades every attack that rushes toward him.

The esteemed Jedi Master, Tengen, kneels to meet Yuji’s gaze, a warm smile on his face. “That, young one, is one of the most formidable and cunning Jedi we’ve ever had amongst our ranks. Sukuna Ryomen, a Jedi Knight on the path to becoming a great Jedi Master.”

“Sukuna Ryomen…?”

"Indeed," Master Tengen says, pressing a button to zoom in slightly on the young Jedi Knight's figure. "One day, Yuji, you will be just as strong and wise as him."

“But he looks terrifying!” Yuji exclaims.

The older Jedi chuckles. "Oh, you’re absolutely right! Don’t you think he should do something about that fierce scowl of his?"

Yuji nods fervently, not looking away from the hologram.

"Even so, he remains one of the finest Jedi in the Order." The teacher says, his smile unwavering, though a solemn glint flickers in his eyes. "Many claim he is without flaw, but I see it differently."

“How come, Master?” Yuji blinks up at the Jedi with those curious, wide eyes.

"Well, young one," Yuji gets a gentle pat onthe head. "He's as unpredictable as a storm. Calm and clear one moment, then suddenly, dark clouds gather on the horizon."

It seems like Sukuna Ryomen had quite a temper.

"Is it really that bad?"

"Not quite." The Jedi rises from his kneeling position and deactivates the hologram. The image of Jedi Knight Sukuna Ryomen flickers out of existence. "At times, it can be a… tool of advantage. Especially when dealing with our enemies. But among friends? It feels as if we're walking on thin ice.”

“But why?” Yuji asks, confusion still evident in his voice. To him, unpredictability is beneficial. A way to win battles by keeping his opponents from reading his next move. In his mind, that alone is enough to secure victory. But Yuji is still young, still naive, believing that combat is the sole purpose of it all—of life. Unaware that there is far more to this than just fighting and winning battles by blade.

"You may not see it now, Yuji, but failing to understand someone can lead to countless problems. One after another, they pile up. While unpredictability has its merits, the unknown is a dangerous force. One that pushes our minds to the very brink of darkness." Master Tengen rests a hand on the young Jedi learner’s shoulder. "Come now, we’ll continue this discussion with the others in the next class."

Yuji nods, letting the Jedi Master guide him to another room. He isn’t sure what to make of this lesson, nor does he dwell on the name of the Jedi Knight, Ryomen. It’s an odd thing, sometimes… that it carries an ominous weight, and perhaps for good reason.

Because just before Master Tengen shuts off the hologram, Yuji catches a glimpse of Sukuna’s face… Twisted into a wicked grin as he effortlessly slices the training droid to pieces. Cleary overjoyed for causing its eradication.

Yuji frowns.
It appears then, that only a man like him marvels at the sight of destruction.  ~~~ Getting caught in extreme weather is never in the list of Yuji’s desirable things.This current predicament has drained him so completely that his legs are barely holding him up. To make matters worse, his spaceship lay in ruins, beyond repair, after being violently ripped from hyperspace in such a short span of notice. It was every captain’s worst nightmare, a catastrophic event no one ever wished to face.Because being pulled out of hyperspace could mean instant death. A single miscalculation could send the ship straight into a star’s blazing core or hurtling toward a moon or meteor for an immediate crash landing. In Yuji’s case, the ship he had taken from Sukuna’s vessel seemed intact—at least at first. But only after he had launched himself far beyond reach did he realize the ship had actually sustained significant damage from the sheer power of Sukuna’s force. His pull was so great that now Yuji’s ride is no longer in its original shape.The Jedi—no, the Sith, had been clever in attempting to sabotage the hyperdrive systems, but thanks to Yuji’s quick thinking, it hadn’t been completely destroyed. Otherwise, he would have been yanked out of hyperspace, either crashing into a nearby moon or, worse, falling into the hands of the Sith. The latter a far more grueling fate than many.It was still an unfortunate turn of events since being pulled out of hyperspace had placed him directly in front of a massive, unknown planet. Yuji swiftly took control, steering the ship onto the right trajectory to ensure a safe landing. However, the abrupt and unwelcomed exit from the hyperspace had also fried both the controls and the engine, causing the ship to lose power. With no other options, he plummeted toward the unfamiliar world below.It was all a flurry of activity.Destruction engulfed everything in a chaotic whirlwind. The ship, engulfed in flames, plunged through the atmosphere at rapid speed, breaking apart piece by piece as it descended. Sweat poured down Yuji’s skin, a mix of unbearable heat and sheer terror. He was a decent pilot. Competent, but nowhere near the level of his teacher or the more seasoned Jedi in their ranks. By his own standards, navigating under these conditions was a near-impossible feat, made even worse by the fact that he was completely alone. He had crashed a ship before, but back then, Master Gojo had been there to save them with his superior piloting skills. This time, however… this time, Yuuji was on his own. "Come on, come on, come on!" Yuji had screamed out, gritting his teeth as he struggled to steer the failing ship. Alarms blared relentlessly with its shrill cries cutting through the roaring wind as he continued to fall and fall…But he made it through. Just barely. And now, he stands here, his feet sinking into the soft, shifting sand beneath him.“What has my life turned into?” He bemoaned, wincing at every step he took from the wounds he acquired.He had found himself at the worst possible timing, right in the heart of the storm. His ship, wrecked and unusable, left him bloodied and exhausted. With no shelter to seek, he had no choice but to keep moving, desperately searching for civilization. The wind lashes out at him with unforgiving force. The twin suns of the planet scorch him mercilessly. Sweat and blood cling to his skin, causing discomfort, and thirst gnaws at him. Yet, he refuses to surrender.Yuji keeps walking, pushing forward as far as his exhausted legs will take him. It feels like he's been walking for days. His eyes sting from the sand that blows into his face, his lips have long since cracked, and his throat aches.He has no idea where he is. His legs are moving on their own now, and it feels like there's no hope left.And yet, he could only hope for one thing. That the Force was guiding him toward something. Somewhere. He could feel it deep within.

~~~ As soon as the wind calmed a bit, Yuji spotted what appeared to be a farm. His vision was blurry. Perhaps a hallucination. But the relief he felt was undeniable. However, the moment he tried to move again, his legs gave way, and he collapsed, losing consciousness.When he wakes up, he discovers himself in a small hut.
“Oh! You’re awake!”
Even when he still feels drowsy and drained, Yuji attempts to sit up in the bed where he's lying, instinctively reaching out for the Force to guide him or detect any looming threat. But before he can, a hand gently presses on his shoulder, urging him to lie back down. "No, no. You need to rest," a voice says softly.Years of Jedi training typically kept him alert during even the most vulnerable moments, but the voice was unexpectedly soothing. Welcoming, in fact, that he considers losing his guard for a split moment.Yuji couldn’t see, his sight was blocked by a cloth. Even attempting to open his eyes beneath it only intensified the searing pain. Panic surged through him immediately. “Where—" His throat was raw and sore, followed by a harsh cough.A kind voice, which Yuji assumes belongs to a boy, murmured beside him as a hand shifted to hold a cup, pressing delicately to his lips. “Here, have a drink.”Yuji didn't hesitate to swallow the water, despite the sting in his throat. He gulped it down urgently, feeling an instant sense of relief. The coolness spread through him, and he finally allowed himself to relax.“My mom found you near our farm,” the boy supplied, pulling the cup away from Yuji’s lips. “You’re dressed too heavily for this kind of weather, so I’m guessing you’re from offworld. You don’t seem like a slave, though,” he added, almost to himself.Yuji chooses to disregard the last part. "W-Where... Where am I?" It's already bad enough that he can't see. The sand in his eyes is definitely making it worse.“You don’t know? You’re on Tatooine!” Tatooine...? Y uuji furrows his brow. "That's... in the Outer Rim." This is bad. He’s that far? How is this even happening?"Exactly," the boy says, stepping closer as he sees Yuji trying to lift the cloth from his eyes. "Is it bothering you? Sorry about that. You just need a little more time to heal your eyes."The young Padawan smiles at the concern, “No, it’s okay. My name is Yuji, what’s yours?”“Junpei.”“Nice to meet you, Junpei. Thank you for saving me.”Yuji wishes he could see Junpei right now. The force guides him now but being able to see is greater too.“You’re welcome! My mom and I actually thought you were a slave, you know.” Junpei's tone holds a subtle hint that Yuji can’t quite understand. “I mean, we usually see them coming this way to get away from their masters.”"Slavery... I was under the impression that the Republic's council passed a law to prohibit such practices.""Guess not in the Outer Rim," Junpei sighs. "Out here, laws can bend, and power or control are unpredictable. Usually, this planet is ruled by gangsters or crime lords.”"Wow..." That was hard to hear. How had the Jedi not figured this out? Or did they even try? "And you never thought I was a slave? Why not?""Your clothes," Junpei remarks casually. "They're scorched and dirty now, but when Mom cleaned you up, she noticed they were a bit different from the usual stuff we see around here. That’s when we figured out you're from another world."
Oh. At least he doesn’t know that Yuji’s a Jedi—
“You’re a Jedi, aren’t you?”
He spoke too soon.
“Oh, uh….” Yuji clears his throat, shifting on the bed awkwardly. “How did you…?”“We saw your weapon.”
Ah. The lightsaber.
“Ah…” Now, how will Yuji proceed? “Well, yes. I am a Jedi.”Yuji can't detect any darkness surrounding the boy. Junpei appears to be a good person. The Force would be alerting him right now if anything was off. Still, Yuji knows he can't trust his instincts at the moment. He's made mistakes before. After all, he failed to acknowledge the overwhelming darkness in Sukuna Ryomen's form. He never even questioned it. Junpei might seem harmless, but Yuji can't afford to let his guard down, not after everything that’s happened."You don’t mind, do you?" Yuji asks, his shoulders tightening. Who knows? These people might have saved him, but their motives are still uncertain.
Unpredictability isn't always a good thing.
If Yuji isn’t careful, he might end up being sold into slavery. Jedi fetch a high price because of their abilities. He’s heard tales from when he was just a youngling. Jedi Masters sharing their stories about how they were once captured and forced into slavery. If that happens to him now, who knows what fate holds in store. Perhaps Junpei and his mother don’t have the best of intentions."Not at all!" Junpei exclaims, his voice brimming with excitement. "Actually, I've never met a Jedi before! But my mom always shares stories about people who can perform magic and wield enchanted swords!"Yuji's lips curl into a faint smile. "In that case, I sincerely apologize if I'm not what you expected."Junpei chuckles softly. "Just seeing a Jedi up close is amazing! By the way, is it true you can change the color of your lightsaber? I mean, I heard that's just a rumor though! Oh, and can you light it up right now? Please tell me you can!" He gives Yuji's arm an excited nudge.Before Yuji could speak, he felt someone approaching the room he’s currently occupying. "Junpei, stop pestering our guest," a woman's voice called from the other side of the room. Yuji guessed it was Junpei's mother.“But mom!”"I won't say it again," Junpei’s mother can be heard shuffling through something on the table, probably another glass of water or some healing herbs. "Now, move over. I need to talk to him."A brief silence fell, until Yuji sensed a hand gently pressing the cloth over his eyes. "Hello there, I'm Nagi," the kind voice said. "Would it be alright if I swapped the cloth over your eyes and applied some bacta patches to your wounds?"Yuji gives a nod. "Certainly, ma'am. I'm Yuji, Jedi Padawan.""Well, Yuji, looks like you've been through a lot," she says casually, as she starts her work. "I hope you don’t mind me asking, but how did you end up with those injuries?"
His Venator-Class Starship was destroyed.

The Sith nearly got him.

The dreadful walk in the sand.

Lost. Utterly lost.
“My ship crashed.”“Ah, lots of that is happening nowadays, especially with the war raging. I’m curious to know, however, which side is currently winning.”
The Sith won, ma’am. The Jedi is gone.
“I’m not entirely certain, ma’am. It’s still too difficult to say.” Because he couldn’t allow them to surrender to fear. At the knowledge that the darkness envelops them completely. Even if the Jedi may be defeated now, they’re never truly gone for good."Is that so?" She concluded her task, giving Yuji's arm one final wipe to clean. "Alright, I'll leave you to rest and heal. I'm sure you need all your strength back to fight once more."Yuji’s throat clogged, leaving him unable to speak, even in that moment."Come, Junpei. Our guest could really use some rest."“But I still have some questions for him!” Junpei whines.“Please, son.”“Ugh, fine!”Yuji finally gathered the strength to speak. "Thank you," he said, after clearing away the shadows that clouded his emotions.His emotions are dangerously intense. It's not something the Jedi should allow. Yet, as he lies here, still and powerless, he can't ignore the negativity surrounding him.Though his eyes were unable to see, he could sense the deep sorrow and sadness growing within Nagi's emotions. The Force conveyed this to him. "We patiently await your recovery, young Jedi." ~~~ 
“Megumi!”

“Nobara, run!”

Thick plumes of smoke clawed at the sky, the acrid scent of fire choking the air. Blaster fire erupted from all directions. Screams and cries tore through the halls, their echoes swallowed by the relentless hum of a lightsaber. Streaks of light clashed and danced, a deadly symphony of battle. The vision spiraled, on and on. Scene after scene unraveling in a blur, too fast to grasp, too intense to endure.

Planet after planet… Life after life…

A presence. Watching the events unfold with immense satisfaction.

This darkness, everywhere. And—

It’s here…

He’s found!
Yuji wakes.He could feel the sweat beading on his skin, a cold dread seeping into his bones. This wasn’t just a nightmare. No… It was a vision.It felt too familiar. It was the same one he had before learning the Jedi's downfall. A forewarning.He needs to leave this place.With a grunt, Yuji pushes himself up, clutching his chest. He loosens the cloth over his eyes and forces them open. Days have passed in the process of healing, and with the Force accelerating his recovery, his eyesight has finally returned. Thanks to Junpei and Nagi, his progress of healing has been swift.However, as much as he wishes to remain here, focusing on his recovery and planning his next move, time is slipping away too quickly. His presence endangers those around him, and the last thing he wants is to bring misfortune upon those who aided his recovery. His vision has made that clear. A Sith knows he’s still alive. He’ll be hunted down with no mercy, including those who have helped the Jedi. The only repayment he can offer is leaving before their already scarce resources are wasted on him.The Sith is coming. And Yuji doesn’t know when."Oh, hey! You're feeling better now?" Junpei asks as he stands up from his crouching position, having been focused on repairing a farming droid.The human boy standing before him looked just as Yuji had imagined. A gentle face, black eyes, and dark brown hair pulled into a bun to combat the heat. Now that Yuji’s vision had returned, he could finally put a face to Junpei’s name.Yuji steps out of their hut, embracing the light breeze that offers relief from the unexpectedly hot afternoon. The sky slowly darkens as the twin suns near the end of their rotation, slipping beyond the horizon."Just a little," Yuji confesses. "I... I can't stay here any longer." There's no time to dwell on being abrupt. Every second is slipping away.A frown makes its way on Junpei’s lips. “Oh…”Yuji bows his head in shame. “I can sense something… and it’s not good. Worse, it’s getting closer. The last thing I wanted was to bring this danger to you… because of me.”"But... you’re still not fully recovered!"“The Force accelerates my healing more than you'd think. I'll be alright, Junpei. Do you know where your mother is?”“At work, why?”Yuji offers a faint, sorrowful smile. "I just want to express my gratitude and say goodbye. There's nothing more I can give you or her, except my thanks."“Hold on…” Junpei takes a small step forward. “Are you leaving already?”“It’s better this way.”“It’s getting late, and nightfall here isn’t safe. Maybe you should leave tomorrow instead. Plus, you’ll have the chance to say what you want to tell to my mom.” ‘No, Yuji.’ The Force speaks to him. ‘You need to go. Staying here any longer will lead to trouble.’ ‘But they’ve spent their time and resources on me, helping me heal,’ Yuji can’t help but think, ‘and I have nothing to give them in return!’
‘Leave, now. Or they perish.’
“I… I shouldn’t.” Yuji says, reluctantly."Please, Yuji," Junpei pleads. "It's for your own good. You have to listen to me when I say it's dangerous out there at night. It's not just crime syndicates lurking, but horrible creatures that hunger for meat!"
Screams and cries tore through the field, their echoes swallowed by the relentless hum of a lightsaber.
“You’re right,” Yuji says, defeated. “I suppose I don’t have a choice.”Junpei nods eagerly. “You have no idea. Mom took our only speeder bike for work, and the nearest civilization is almost an hour away. It’s better if you stay here and leave in the morning.”Later that afternoon, just before evening began to settle in, Nagi arrived. She noticed Yuji sitting patiently at the dining table with Junpei and walked over to join them, taking a seat beside them.“Hello, mom. Yuji would like to talk with you.”“My son,” she greets with a nod. “Oh, well, I can see that.”Junpei’s mother is a slender, almost delicate woman, likely worn down from the work she does. A soft smile graces her face, but tinged with a hint of sadness, her eyes still glimmering with warmth. Though weary, she seems genuinely pleased to spend time with her guest.“Ma’am,” Yuji begins. “I just want to express my gratitude for helping me get better. And especially to Junpei, who stayed by my side when it felt like all hope was gone.”Nagi shakes her head with a smile. “It’s truly an honor to assist a Jedi. You’re revered as the galaxy’s peacekeepers, always striving for the greater good. My contribution pales in comparison to all you’ve accomplished.”
For the greater good, huh.
"It might seem that way, but don't make such comparisons. Believe me, all contributions are valuable in their own right. No good act is greater than another." Yuji lowers his head, then adds, "I'm afraid I don't have anything to offer as thanks. If there’s another way, I’d be happy to consider it.""Honestly, I’m not expecting anything." Nagi says. "Considering how badly you were injured, I’m sure your belongings were destroyed in the crash."
‘Look, Yuji, they’re good-hearted. They’re genuinely kind people. If you leave, their kindness will continue, unending.’
Yuji simply nodded in response, pushing aside the pull of the Force and shedding any lingering guilt over his inability to help them. "There's one more thing I need to mention. I’ll have to leave by early morning. It's... for your safety, that's all I can say."A brief silence engulfs them before Nagi nods, swiftly agreeing to it. Yuji feels a weight lift from his shoulders, thankful that she doesn’t press for more. It’s uncommon to find people like her nowadays. Those who accept the truth without digging further. Her trust in him is undeniable, and he knows he must protect that trust by keeping that danger away.Junpei, however, refused to accept it. "What? Just like that? But I want to spend more time with him!"Nagi shakes her head again, giving her son a firm look. “You remember the stories, don’t you? The enemy of the Jedi is just as powerful. The Sith, they call them. Yuji is a Jedi, and with him here, we’re…” Her words trail off as she turns her gaze to Yuji, a look of guilt crossing her face. “Ah, I’m sorry if that came across wrong.”Yuji gives a gentle smile. "No, you're right to be wary of me being here. After all, it's the truth. My presence here can only lead to more danger. That's why I need to leave by tomorrow."“Then, that, you shall.” ~~~ 
It was another day within the halls of the Temple.

Despite the ongoing war, it remains a day where the youth continue to learn. To become capable, since their time to contribute will come far sooner than they all expect.

"I have no doubt that you are all looking forward to today's test," Jedi Grandmaster Tengen says, his gaze sweeping across the room filled with young Jedi learners. "After all, you've spent the past few weeks mastering this material, and now it's time to put your knowledge to the test."

The Initiates begin murmuring among themselves in excitement. Nobara leans in, nudging his shoulder, a subtle display of her enthusiasm. Yuji mirrors the gesture with a grin. Beside him, Megumi shakes his head at their antics, though the spark of excitement in his eyes betrays him.

"This test will be unlike any other." Master Tengen's voice cuts through the eager atmosphere, drawing the younglings' attention back to him. "It will be more practical. More demanding. Today, you will put to use one of the most vital skills a Jedi must master. Concealing your presence."

There it was. One of the most challenging tests yet. The older students—now Padawans, had already let the secret slip to the younger ones, warning them of its near-impossible difficulty while also praising it as an incredible experience in real-world scenarios. Those who had taken it before had a simple name for this trial. "Hide and Seek."

A thrilling challenge for both younglings and Masters alike.

Master Tengen lets the Initiates' excitement hang in the air for a moment before raising his hand, signaling for silence. As the students settle once more, the Jedi Master speaks. “The rules were explained days ago, but I will repeat them. Today's test is about masking your presence in the Force. Blending almost perfectly into your surroundings and within yourself. In simple terms, you will hide, and I will find you.”

Terrifying words for one who spoke it so softly.

"In this era, our war against the Sith continues. There are moments when we Jedi find ourselves at our most vulnerable, forced to retreat and gather our strength for the battles ahead. In real situations, if you were alone and needed to reassess your strategy, you would seek refuge and conceal yourself. But how? The Sith can sense our presence. So what must we do to truly vanish from their sight?"

One of the Initiates, Megumi, raised a hand and replied, “Force Concealment! Also known as Force Stealth. It’s an advanced skill that allows a Force-user to mask their alignment, their ability to wield the Force, or even their entire presence from other Force-sensitives.”

"That's right, young Fushiguro. This technique is highly advanced, but given your age, you’re not expected to master it completely just yet. However, it would be beneficial for you to gain a basic understanding, even if only temporarily. That is the purpose of this test. Many Jedi can sustain this ability for days, but since you are still learners, I will give you three hours to conceal yourselves from me and the other Jedi assisting with this exercise."

"There are more Jedi?" one of them asked nervously.

Ah, so it’s not going to be easy, huh? This was probably something the senior students had kept to themselves. While they had hinted at this test, they hadn’t given the full details. Yuji had originally thought Master Tengen would be the only one to track them down, which seemed like an advantage since it would be him against dozens of them. It would definitely take time for him to find them.

Having other Jedi involved in this test would definitely make the search easier.

The Jedi teacher wears a smirk, clearly visible on his face. “You’re all quite skilled. If I were on my own, it would be nearly impossible to locate each of you in under three hours. I’ll need assistance.” He then turns toward the door, where all eyes are drawn. “Please, come in, Jedi Master Yaga.”

Yikes. A member of the Jedi Council? This is definitely going to be tough.

"It seems like we're in for a tough time," Nobara murmured next to him.

"Yeah, definitely." Megumi mumbled, already slouching at the sight of the newcomer. "We’ll be caught in less than an hour at this."

It appears that Master Tengen is not yet done, as he motioned to the door once more. “I've selected Jedi Knight Iori to assist as well.”

More groans filled the room as Knight Iori entered, letting out a snicker at their expense. Her sharp gaze swept over the space. "Don’t think I’ll go easy on you, younglings, because I certainly won’t!"

“Great…” Yuji grumbles.

“And lastly…” Master Tengen says.

Another Jedi? Yuji thought anxiously, his shock growing as a bad feeling settled in.

“We’re already outmatched with three Jedi Masters!” Megumi hisses beside Yuji. “And now there’s one more?”

“Another Jedi Knight has offered to assist. Originally, I’ve only called two Jedi who are qualified to help me today, but he’s insistent on joining in for this test, and well…” Master Tengen shrugs, seemingly unaware of the downcast expressions from the Initiates. “It’ll be excellent practice and a genuine challenge for all of you. Welcome, Jedi Knight Ryomen.”

Ryomen?

“Oh, kriff.”

“S-Sukuna Ryomen?”

“It’s over.”

“No way.”

“Well, there goes my grades.”

Yuji, however, remained speechless as the door opened to reveal Knight Sukuna Ryomen.

He entered with a grace that commanded the attention of those within the room, his every movement exuding an undeniable presence. It’s almost… alluring in a way.

His imposing stature and calm confidence immediately drew every eye. A seasoned warrior indeed, with the way he holds himself. Sukuna had already proven himself a fearsome force on countless battlefields, his victories etching his name into the records of combat. To see him here, standing among some of the galaxy’s most revered Jedi, was almost unbelievable.

Why, of all places, was he here, rather than leading troops on the front lines? It was an anomaly to have a Jedi of his caliber, a mind as sharp as his blade, involved in something so seemingly trivial, such as playing ‘Hide and Seek’. The council, notorious for their rare involvement in matters like this, would not usually assign such a distinguished figure to oversee a mere gathering of younglings. Yet, here he was, a master among them.

Yuji paused, holding his breath as Sukuna Ryomen locked eyes with him. The intensity of the gaze stirred a sense of unease within him for reasons he can’t explain.

The room fell silent as soon as he stood next to Master Yaga, his posture rigid and composed. A menacing aura surrounded him, though Yuji wasn’t sure if it was meant to be intimidating or admirable. It might be the latter, given the way everyone gazed at him in awe. Yet, it seemed only Yuji could feel the unsettling shiver crawling down his spine, now that he was face-to-face with the one who commanded such respect.

It’s as if everyone should be… grateful, that he even dared to bless them with his presence.

Master Tengen, however, ignored the awe that befalls on his students.

"The test begins now. Seek refuge only within the Temple, and avoid the restricted areas, particularly the Halls of Healing. You may take cover in the Library, but be sure not to disturb those using it. You have thirty minutes to conceal yourselves, followed by an additional fifteen minutes to mask your Force. Once time has passed, we will begin our search. Remember, this is both a test and an opportunity to develop your skills. May the Force be with you."

As Yuji steps out of the room, he can still sense Sukuna’s gaze following him, refusing to let go. Sukuna Ryomen isn’t one to shy away from pursuing what piques his interest. Yet, it’s unsettling. Being in that room meant Yuji was the sole focus of his attention, and he’s not sure how to process that.

Either way, it doesn't bode well for him.

“Good luck, Yuji!” Nobara gives him a reassuring pat on the back. “You, too, Megumi!”

"May the Force be with you!" Megumi said as his farewell before leaving.

Yuji bid them his farewells too.

Luck, huh. Yeah… He’s gonna need lots of luck.
 
~~~
 
Each area is already occupied by other Initiates.

The Library? Occupied.

Training Area? Occupied.

The Dormitory? Also occupied.

However, there was one more aspect that Yuji took into account. The Gardens.

This place is often where individuals come to meditate and connect profoundly with the Force. Troubled Jedi frequently retreat here, hoping to find guidance from the Force that envelops them. The area is lush with vibrant greenery, exotic flowers, beautiful ponds, and stones of various sizes. The room is currently vacant, which is a relief. With so many Jedi away on the battlefield, many rooms these days tend to be empty.

Yuji decided to take cover in a tree that had been planted centuries ago. Its branches were thick and sturdy enough to support his weight. With a leap, he climbed high and settled on a branch, hidden from the door's view. He adjusted a few smaller branches to further conceal himself and sat cross-legged, focusing on masking his presence in the Force.

The Initiates also have an advantage, in a way.

Although the Jedi who seek their younglings’ presence are indeed notorious in their own right, they too are bound by strict rules to prevent them from gaining favor too quickly. The Jedi tasked with finding them are known as seekers, but they are not permitted to investigate a room too thoroughly. For example, they cannot physically touch the surroundings to locate the younglings. Instead, they must rely solely on the Force. Once inside a room where an Initiate is most likely to be, they remain still, not searching with their arms, or feet, but instead using the Force to guide their efforts.

The Temple isn't the ideal place to hide since space is limited. To give the Initiates a fair chance, they must hide both physically and spiritually. The true challenge lies not in being found by their physical presence, but in their Force signature being detected.

If a Jedi Master detects an Initiate through the Force by sensing their Force signature, the Initiate is bound to fail. In real-life situations, the Sith are also Force-sensitive, and if they detect a signature too early, the Jedi are at risk of being located and killed.

To pass, the Initiate must remain undetected for ten seconds straight, provided the Jedi Master doesn't sense their presence immediately. To get a perfect score, they must stay hidden for a full three hours without being detected. If the Jedi Master senses them too soon, the Initiate will fail and can attempt it again in the future.

Staying hidden is essential to avoid being detected by the Sith if one wants to remain out of their sight. It's also crucial for survival. Yuji hoped to stay undetected for at least ten seconds to get through, or even better, for three hours to perfect the test.

This examination is complicated in itself.

So far, Yuji is doing well. An hour has passed, and no one has entered the room. Still, he remains vigilant, not letting his guard slip. He meditates without using the Force, focusing on concealing his presence. He knows he can't let his Force signature expand or reach out, as it would make him an easy target. If he attempts to sense what's happening outside the room, he would most likely be detected.

It's like being blind. He may have sight, but he can't feel, so he can't afford to take the chance.

After what seemed like hours, the door to the Garden suddenly opened. Yuuji quickly ducked, careful not to disturb the leaves beside him, holding his breath.

It’s Knight Utahime Iori.

She is quick to act. The Jedi takes a step forward in the room and closes her eyes, starting her search. Yuji channels all the energy and focus he can muster to conceal his Force signature, desperately trying to mask his nervousness and shock to avoid being detected.

The Jedi Knight remained still for a full ten seconds, her expression contorting with concentration as she sought to sense the Force in every direction around her, before eventually opening her eyes.

She does not move whatsoever, refraining from investigating or disturbing the objects around her. She simply isn't permitted to walk around. Instead, she stands there, scanning her surroundings, searching for any sign of his presence.

Knight Iori lets out a grunt before stepping out and closing the door behind her.

And just like that… Yuji passed.

Yuji let out a quiet sigh of relief, shifting awkwardly in his seat.

He succeeded! He did it! He passed!

To think he’s up against a Jedi Knight. It feels amazing! Maybe it’s due to the location he chose. The Garden is teeming with life, and, obviously, is filled with the Force. Every living thing here is enveloped by it, which is why this place is so well-known as a meditation sanctuary for the Jedi. It’s the perfect environment for them to connect with the Force, surrounded by the vibrant pulse of life.

At the moment, he could only hope that the other Initiates had made it as well.

It’s a wise decision for Yuji to even pick this place.

Just as he felt he might finally let himself connect with the Force, the door swung open.

Out of nowhere, Yuji feels a sharp pain in his head.

He decided to ignore it, instinctively cutting himself off from the Force once more. After days of practice and refining this skill, Yuji was able to focus and condense his Force signature into a bubble, dispersing it to blend seamlessly with his surroundings. He could only hope that the shock he felt hadn't disrupted his concentration, or he might already have been detected.

He cautiously glanced from behind the tree trunk, making sure he stayed well hidden. However, as he did, a flash of red caught his eye, and Yuji quickly recoiled, his heart pounding in his chest.

It’s Sukuna Ryomen.

Yuji's been caught! He's definitely sure of it!

Did it count?

Knight Ryomen literally glanced his way!

Hold on, are they even allowed to do this? Yuji distinctly remembered Master Tengen saying that a seeker could only be in one room at a time! But then again, there are four Jedi looking for them. Knight Iori can’t come back to this room, but… Well, it’s clear the others shouldn’t be able to either, right?

No, Yuji doesn’t believe it works like that. Or maybe he does. Gah! What does he know?

But he’s been found. He locked eyes with Ryomen! Or maybe... it’s just a hallucination. Force Concealment is a technique that demands a lot of energy. Perhaps Yuji is simply exhausted from maintaining it for so long.

Yet, Knight Ryomen hadn't noticed him. Perhaps... Perhaps he hadn't even seen him.

Then, Yuji hears footsteps approaching.

Suddenly, sweat floods his brow, his pulse roaring like a drumbeat in the otherwise silent room. Yuji's focus starts to crumble, his nerves tightening, suffocating him. The oppressive weight of fear is taking control, and he can feel it. Something darker is closing in.

This was not allowed. It simply goes against the rules. Right?

The Jedi Masters are meant to remain in one spot! They aren’t allowed to move around! They were supposed to locate them solely through the Force, just like Knight Iori did moments ago!

However, that didn't appear to be the situation when Sukuna Ryomen ignored the rules and kept walking toward Yuji’s way.

It was an agonizing wait. An unexpected twist of events. But then again, with Ryomen involved, things are bound to swerve in the wrong direction.

‘Focus, Yuji! Don’t let the fear take over!’ Yuji closes his eyes, pressing his back against the tree's trunk. His concentration on masking his Force signature is beginning to slip.

“You think you can hide from me?” The voice slithered into the room, sending a chill through Yuji’s spine. His heart froze, trapped in the suffocating silence. “It doesn’t matter where you run, brat. I will find you.”

What’s happening?

What is this feeling?

No…

He’s found.

Yuji’s found.

"Enough with this nonsense, and come over here, or else..."

Yuji’s found.

Yuji opened his eyes, his breath hitching as he realized he was no longer in the peaceful embrace of the garden. The trees, the calm air. They were all gone… Replaced by an unnerving sight.
He found himself standing on a ship, its metal floors cold and unforgiving, the air stale and suffocating. His hand gripped the hilt of his lightsaber, its blade glowing a stark, warm blue that bathed the ship in an unnatural light. The ship— this ship—had a sickening familiarity. The very same one that Sukuna Ryomen had used to pull him from the clutches of the Inquisitor. The silence pressed down on him, thick with something darker, something far more sinister lurking in the shadows.
In front of him stands a man with yellow Sith eyes.

“Or else, your friend Junpei will meet his end.” Sukuna grins. That piercing, yellow gleamed like molten gold in the darkness, as if they could see through his very soul.
Yuji wakes. ~~ "It's hard to see you leave," Junpei says as he walks him outside, their steps deliberately slow, stretching out the conversation for just a little longer. "I just thought... maybe it’d be better if you stayed, y-you know. With us! It’s safe here."Yuji gives him a sad smile.After spending several days here, the Padawan had come to realize that this boy had long wished for a sibling. There weren’t many other children his age in the area. Just him and his mother, living alone in a small hut, far from the rest of civilization. As moisture farmers, their way of life was harsh, demanding constant effort to survive. But more than anything, it was the solitude that weighed on Junpei. He was just a boy, doing his best to help his mother in any way he could.Unfortunately, Yuji simply can't give him that dream. To be the brother Junpei never had. After all, he's a Jedi."That would have been a better choice," Yuji agrees. "I feel like I could do a lot of good here, but… it's just not my role." And staying here would only disturb this peace. A constant reminder of the darkness shrouding upon them. Especially, of the target on his back.Junpei nods, attempting to look hopeful, but the glimmer in his eyes betrays his sadness. “I understand.”
“Yuji!”
The two turned their heads as Nagi emerged from the other room, holding what seemed to be a piece of a communication device. Yuji’s eyes widened in shock. “Is that…?”"This is a missing part from a subspace transceiver," Nagi said, handing the tool to Yuji. "It belonged to my late husband. He used to be a mechanic and sold parts." She paused before continuing, "There's an old transmission tower up in the mountains, about an hour from here, straight ahead from our home. It's abandoned, but… My husband kept tinkering with it, and occasionally, it worked. So… maybe this will help you reach your friends."Yuji carefully takes the item, his mind racing with possibilities. A goal. A goal within his reach! This is such a blessing. And it’s all because of this kindness. This… This he will have to protect.He looks up at her, eyes wide. “You… You’re a lifesaver! H-How could I ever thank you for—-”She interrupts him, reaching out and gripping his shoulder firmly. "You've already done more than enough. Your duty as a Jedi is its own payment."He has much more he wants to express, much more he wants to argue. His actions as a Jedi barely measure up in the eyes of these farmers. In truth, he owes them. Not only did they save his life, but they also gave him a goal. To have hope. These people deserve nothing less than his kindness and deep gratitude.“Thank you.”There was nothing else that could extend his stay. Yuji thanked the two of them sincerely and bid them farewell. Then, he set off on foot. Nagi had offered him the speeder, but Yuji knew how much they relied on it, so he couldn’t bring himself to take it for his own use. Besides, he already owed them so much. He didn’t mind this challenge. In fact, he had worse before.The weather was a bit more forgiving today. There was no storm, but the twin suns continued to scorch him relentlessly. The bag he was carrying, filled with supplies that Nagi and Junpei insisted he bring, was nearly empty halfway through. Yuji needed to understand the importance of conserving the limited resources he had. Yet, even from this distance, he could already spot a mountain in the distance.The journey was arduous and brutal, but with the strength of the Force and his unyielding resolve, he has finally reached the base of the mountain. Another long trek still lies ahead to reach his destination.It was no surprise that it had been abandoned. There were no proper landing platforms for ships, and its height and isolation made it too distant from civilization to function effectively. After what seemed like hours of exhausting hiking, pushing himself to his limits, he finally reached the transmission tower.Yuji wiped the sweat that was slowly running down his forehead. “You’ve made it… I’ve made it.” He then took a deep breath, exhaling as he relaxed his muscles, all while staying alert, sensing for any signs of danger around him.Once he confirms that he's alone and secure, he heads swiftly to an old machine in the center, quickly identifying its source to send out a signal. This device should sync with the signal tower, activating the signal. With no power available, he hopes there’s enough battery left from the base's main energy source, the reactor that provides electricity. If not... he might be able to harness the sun’s power instead.
'Master Gojo… Nobara… Megumi… Master Nanami… I hope that there are more survivors like me.'
It took hours to get everything back in working order. Fortunately, there was just enough power left to charge his comlink and establish a connection between the two devices. Yuji wasn’t exactly a skilled mechanic, but under Satoru Gojo’s watchful eye, he had been taught how to repair communication devices when things went wrong.This situation is a bit tricky, given that it's an old, abandoned place with no care for the past years. Still, the surrounding area has enough resources to provide what he needs. His comlink is tiny compared to a holoprojector, and extending its signal is a challenge, with its reach barely spanning a few light-years. It's also quite weak. However, Yuji has a hidden code only the Jedi can detect. The Sith wouldn’t bother learning it because signals like this are easily dismissed.He knows this from experience, having once been stranded on a planet during a mission with Master Gojo. His comlink was the only means of contacting his teacher. Although Sith were nearby, Yuji managed to boost the signal just enough to make it appear as interference, sending the secret code that only his teacher could understand, stretching light-years away.Only a handful knows this trick.It was hours once again when his call was picked up. Yuji’s heart spiked. A survivor!
“Hello… What… I see… Can you…”
“Hello? Hello?!” Yuji’s hoarse throat screams out to the comlink, desperation at its limit. “I-It’s Yuji Itadori! Jedi Padawan! Who is this?”
“Yuji…? This is… Can… Report…”
“Yes, yes! It’s Yuji!” Frustration surged through him as he glared at the device. “ Ugh, come on, signal!” He resisted the urge to smash it against the wall, knowing that wouldn’t help. Then, an idea struck him. Stumbling to his feet, dizziness washing over him from the heat and dehydration, Yuji made his way outside, hoping for a better connection.And it did. Well, slightly.
“I’m unable… to send… to your… But we’re… Moon…”
Moon? A hundred possibilities instantly flooded Yuji’s mind. “Sorry, what? Can you say that again?”
“I can’t… Sith… here!”
Yuji, however, couldn't make sense of the words when they spilled out in a tangled mess. Unfortunately, those were the last words before the connection was cut off as the signal lost power. Just like that.Yuji frowned, tapping his comlink repeatedly, but there was no response. He stood there, contemplating ways to repair it, but given the tower’s functionality, any attempt would be futile. Out of the corner of his eye, Yuji caught sight of something in the distance. He turned his gaze toward it, narrowing his eyes.A city.Yuji tightens his grip on his comlink, determination settling in once more. He knows what he must do. No matter how weak he feels, he will push forward, trekking from here to there is certainly no easy task but he must. He will. He has to keep moving.It's the only way to find hope again.But just as he was about to leave, his comlink crackled with static. Startled, Yuji lifted it and tapped it again. “Hello? Hello?”The silence lingered once more, but Yuji hesitated for just a moment longer. Then, the comlink crackled back to life with a signal. Relief surged through Yuji, but it was temporary.
“My Padawan…”
Yuji felt his blood run cold. That voice.
“You think… can hide from me?” 
Visions of Yuji's nightmare surged through his mind, and his chest clenched as those yellow eyes flashed before him again.
"The result… your choices will… significant..."
Yuji’s hands starts to shake.
“I know where you are.”
The words were spoken so flawlessly despite the static, that Yuji threw the comlink to the ground and stomped on it. He stormed out, ignoring the chills creeping down his spine. ~~~ By the time he arrived at the city, his throat was parched. He had drained the last of his water hours ago, but he relied on the Force to endure, slowing his metabolism to conserve energy. Master Gojo had taught him this technique. Just in case he ever found himself imprisoned with little to no sustenance. Even so, it did little to quell the gnawing hunger in his stomach or the dryness scratching at his throat.He spotted a vendor selling mechanical parts. Without pausing to rest, Yuji approached the Toydarian, who quickly took notice and gave him a questioning look."What happened to you, huh?" the Toydarian drawled, the alien's thick accent stretching out the words as he eyed Yuji. "You look like you got caught in the middle of a sandstorm!" Well, in a way, he wasn’t wrong."I need to get out of here," he muttered, attempting to mask the urgency in his voice. The Sith could arrive at any moment."Are you a slave?" The alien squinted at him, getting suspicious. "You certainly don’t appear to be, you know, dressed like that."
His Jedi clothes. Darn it.
“Does it matter? I just need a way out of here.”"Ah, but that bit of information comes at a price!" the Toydarian said smugly.Yuji, unfortunately, doesn't have any credits on him. “I…” His words falter as his hand grazes something warm and metallic at his hip. He instinctively presses it, the sudden realization hitting him. His lightsaber. Gojo’s voice rings in his mind, from the early days when he became his mentor. ‘Yuji, this lightsaber is your life, don’t lose it!’ Yet, here he is, in the midst of his most challenging moment.He regretted the thought of giving it away, but Yuji just needed to outsmart this Toydarian, and after all, he had a few tricks of his own. He will have his weapon back.Yuji picked up his lightsaber and presented it to the seller. "What do you think of this?"The Toydarian’s eyes glowed at the sight. “A lightsaber!”“Indeed.”“So... You’re a Jedi, huh? Here to bring war to this planet, are you?”Yuji simply presses his lips together at that.The Toydarian looked thoughtful as he grasped the lightsaber from Yuji’s hand. “Hmm… Yes… This is quite the prized possession for dealers like myself. To think I’m the first to hold one,” he chuckled eagerly. “Alright then, I’ll accept this pay! A way out, you say? Well, one of our trading clans is refueling nearby, preparing to head to another planet. They're stationed just down the street. You can't miss it! Maybe you could catch a ride with them. Be warned though, they don’t treat strangers kindly.”“I see…” It’ll be a pain, but Yuji will risk everything. “Thank you.”In the next few minutes, as the Toydarian admired his freshly acquired possession inside his shelter, a Jedi secretly and quietly slipped in through the window and waited calmly for the alien to find a place for it in his cluttered space. As anticipated by the Jedi, the Toydarian, once satisfied, carefully placed the lightsaber on a shelf among his most prized possessions before leaving his shelter to resume his duties, completely unaware of the presence lurking among the droid parts in the back.By the time the Toydarian made it back to his shelter, the weapon was gone.Yuji sprinted to the end of the street, dodging both suspicious workers and buyers along the way. Though many of them watched him like he was prey, his mind was fixed on one thing. The ship before him, ready for departure.A sense of relief washed over him as he noticed the workers loading boxes. A bunch of aliens, is what they are. They were probably dealing with illegal products, but Yuji couldn’t bring himself to care about that now. His focus was on his safety and finding a way out. And here it is in front of him."Excuse me, hello!" He walks up to one of the workers, who immediately notices him. "I was hoping to—"A sense of dread filled him. Yuji halts.The alien in front of him quickly brandishes a weapon, though not aimed directly at him just yet. It speaks in a language Yuji can’t comprehend, but the real source of the looming danger wasn’t from the alien.No.It was much, much worse.The other aliens start to take notice and cautiously make their way toward him, each armed with their own weapon. They murmur to each other, puzzled and wary of why someone like Yuji is intruding on them. But Yuji remains still, completely frozen in place.Because he sensed the unmistakable, familiar tendrils of darkness surrounding him, almost as if it were claiming him. It’s a greeting.Out of nowhere, the aliens gazed up at the sky, many of them pointing towards a warship descending through the atmosphere. Yuji glanced up and instantly understood.He’s too late.The ship streaked through the sky above the village, moving at lightning speed, before looping back around. Panic spread among the villagers as they looked up and observed what it’ll do, a mix of curiosity and fear as they sought shelter. The ship circling the city was the only sign Yuji needed to recognize… That hell was coming for them.The unidentified ship raised its weapons and targeted them. Yuji hit the deck as the ship's cannons and artillery blasted the cargo vessel directly ahead. The aliens shrieked, and the cargo ship detonated, sending everyone sprawling to the ground. The scene erupted into chaos.Yuji can feel it. It’s the Sith.He can sense his presence.They’ve come for him. There’s no doubt they know he’s trying to flee. As if to seal his fate further, their ship looms above the city, dark and menacing. Its engines roar as it hovers, casting a shadow over everything below. Without warning, blasts of energy tear through the sky once again, obliterating the cargo vessels that attempt to flee the chaos. It’s a display of power, a brutal reminder that resistance is futile.In that moment, Yuji realizes there’s no escape for a Jedi, no hope left. The Sith have already won and will win again.Yuji recalls the lessons from his training with his teacher. The techniques drilled into him, each one etched into his memory. He focuses on the art of Force Concealment, a skill he learned to perfection. It’s his only chance to stay hidden, to shield himself from detection long enough to stay one step ahead. But can he still hide his presence from him though?Despite Yuji's efforts, it’s already too late. Sukuna Ryomen, with his uncanny awareness, has sensed his presence long before Yuji could even register it. Sukuna knows he’s here, lurking somewhere nearby.It’s up to Yuji to make his search difficult.Yuji darted for cover, his heart racing as the bombs continued to rain down, specifically targeting the taller buildings around him. Desperation flooded his veins as he spotted an entrance to a tunnel leading underground. Without a second thought, he plunged into the darkness below, hoping it would shield him from the chaos above. His hand instinctively brushed against the hilt of his lightsaber, securely fastened at his hip, a silent plea that he wouldn’t be forced to use it so soon.The shrill cries of the panicked crowd echoed in his ears, mixing with the noise of explosions, each sound pushing him closer to the edge. The noise was overwhelming, threatening to disturb him, yet he held firm. His breath was shaky, his thoughts frantic, but his resolve remained unshaken. He is a Jedi, and he had to survive. He had no choice but to carry on.His concentration on maintaining the Force Concealment wavered as the oppressive darkness around him threatened to overwhelm his mind. Despite the bustling life all around, the disturbances in the Force were suffocating, making it difficult to keep his focus. The chaos of it all clawed at his senses, but he couldn’t afford to lose control. Every part of him was dedicated to masking his Force signature, praying that he was doing enough to stay hidden from the man determined to capture him.Finally, he spots a hidden corner in the maze-like sewers. The dampness of the stone floors soaks through his boots, and the pungent stench of decay fills the air, but there’s an eerie silence here. He fights the urge to vomit from the smell.No footsteps, no voices, except for the thunderous explosion from above. He melts into the shadows, his body still and poised, blending into the shadows around him. His concentration sharpens as he pushes all traces of his presence into the nothing, carefully veiling himself from the prying senses of the Sith.This game of Hide and Seek… It’s all familiar.Once again, he felt like a Jedi Initiate taking that difficult exam. Back then, it was just a simulation. An exercise meant to prepare him for the real thing. But now, faced with reality, he wasn’t sure if all that training would be enough. The thought alone would have been terrifying to any youngling, a stark reminder of the weight carried by those who walk the Jedi path. Yet, here he was, no longer a student but a Jedi, and every lesson drilled into him over the years was no longer just theory. It was his lifeline. A key to survival. And he would use everything he had to survive.He felt nothing.The Force, usually a constant presence in his senses, was muted. Force Concealment was a technique far beyond the grasp of most, a skill that required immense discipline, and one that even seasoned Jedi Masters struggled to perfect. By suppressing his presence, he was effectively cutting himself off from the Force’s natural flow. He could still call upon it if needed, but the risk was immense.One misstep, one moment of overuse, and his position would be exposed. That was the true challenge of this ability.Yuji was only a Padawan, far from the level of those who had truly mastered such a technique. And yet, he had no choice but to rely on it now. His survival depended on it. If his control wavered, if his concealment failed, it wouldn’t just be his mission at stake. It would be his life.It felt like an eternity had passed, though he knew it was just a cruel trick of his mind. Ever since he had taken refuge in the suffocating darkness, time had lost all meaning. The distant echoes of explosions and the sharp whine of blaster fire still pierced the air outside. But here, in this secret area, there was only silence. No footsteps. No voices. No one had come. No one at all.It’s suspicious.Yuji needs to move.It felt almost too good to be true. Why hadn’t they found him yet? The Sith are everywhere, their presence suffocating the city like a creeping shadow. Surely, they had learned by now that the obvious hiding spots were no longer among the towering ruins. They had made that much clear when they reduced the tallest buildings to rubble, tearing them down with relentless bombings. If he wasn’t above, then the only place left to hide was below. And yet, no one had come for him.And if that were the case, maybe—He picked up a familiar sound. Yuji freezes, holding his breath.
It's the hum of a lightsaber in motion.
Yuji rises from his position, his eyes quickly adapting to the darkness. There’s no trace of a red glow nearby, indicating that the noise is distant yet still carries through the echoing tunnels. The vibrations ripple through the walls. He needs to act. Now!He moves cautiously through the murky water, mindful of every step to avoid making a sound that might carry. His lightsaber rests in his palm now, his grip tight and ready.  Uncertainty starts to creep in. Was that distant noise truly far away, or was it closer than it seemed? Yuji can’t be sure.Outside, the noise of chaos has faded. No explosions. No screams. Just an eerie, unsettling silence.It leaves him vulnerable. His footsteps are now audible.He arrives at a corner with two paths, one leading right and the other left. He’s unsure which direction the Sith's lightsaber came from, but it's getting closer. Cautiously, he peeks around each side. Still, no one is in sight.He lets his instincts lead him and takes the path on the left. His skin tingles with the intensity of the moment.As he ventured more, he realized he had reached the tunnel's exit. Now, uncertainty gripped him. Should he stay here, knowing the Sith still roamed the tunnel, risking being discovered? The darkness could conceal him here, and the maze-like sewers offered some cover. But leaving the tunnel opened up many more places to hide. He could seek refuge among the rubble or in the remnants of undamaged houses.Regardless, being up there felt like the better option. The darkness in this place seemed to consume him, feeding his mind with dark thoughts.As soon as he steps outside, however, smoke and ashes meet him. The air was familiar, reminiscent of the battles he fought in the past, but the devastation around him is staggering.The houses, the towering buildings… Gone.The land is barren, reduced to rubble. Dread spreads across the vast emptiness. No life. No vibrant energy that once greeted him. Everything that once stood has vanished. Yuji’s throat tightened, struggling to hold back the tears that threatened to fall.He stands in the heart of what was once a bustling city, now reduced to a hollow shell of its former glory.The vibrant energy that once filled the streets has vanished, leaving only remnants of its beauty. The air is thick with silence, broken only by the crackling of fire and a chilling sight of lifeless bodies scattered across the ground.Victims of every shape, age, and species. The city is swallowed by the overwhelming presence of a Gladiator-Class Cruiser, a towering behemoth of a spaceship that looms above with a menacing shadow, casting an eerie shadow over the devastation below.All this life is gone.Because of Yuji."The result of your choices will be significant."Yuji didn’t have to look to know who it was. The one who was waiting for him to show himself. His focus remained fixed on the lifeless body of a child in front of him."I’ve given you fair warning, brat." The Sith stepped into Yuji's line of sight, but still, he found himself unable to meet the approaching figure’s eyes."No one needs to die because of your choices, and yet…" Sukuna let out a heavy sigh, a sound that seemed laced with reluctant regret, like he mourned the inevitable consequences of his own actions, like this was just another bitter, unavoidable turn of fate in his cursed existence.The Sith stands before Yuji, his imposing figure blocking the gruesome sight of the bodies sprawled around them. Yuji is motionless, his body rigid with shock, sorrow, and the overwhelming weight of disbelief. Sukuna lifts a hand to gently stroke Yuji’s messy hair, his fingers soft against the boy’s scalp. He leans down, pressing his lips to Yuji’s forehead in a cold, almost affectionate gesture.“Things could’ve been so much simpler if you had just obeyed from the start, no?” Sukuna murmurs, his voice low and taunting. Another kiss is placed on Yuji’s brow, while his fingers linger on Yuji's skull, an unsettling mix of comfort and dominance, as though attempting to soothe the boy’s shattered mind."Though I think you've learned your lesson," Sukuna says, his tone a mix of satisfaction and warning. "Let me remind you once more." He leaned back just enough to catch Yuji's gaze, his fingers expertly grasping the younger man's chin, forcing his head up to meet his eyes."No matter where you try to hide, little Jedi, I will always find you. And when I do, you’ll have to face the consequences of your actions." With a small step to the side, Sukuna made sure Yuji could see the destruction and death unfolding before them.Cruel. He is utterly cruel."Darth Malvior," another Sith called out behind them. "The ship is ready to depart."“Good. Uraume, chart a course for Coruscant,” Sukuna commanded, a wicked grin spreading across his face. “And inform everyone that I, the Emperor, will finally return home, with my queen by my side.” ~~~ 
Amidst the revered and sacred halls of the Jedi Temple, the newly-promoted Padawan Gojo's eyes fell upon a fellow Padawan he had never encountered before.

Being naturally social, he thrived on meeting new people and making connections. However, as he drew closer to the unfamiliar face, an unexpected wave of discomfort washed over him, causing him to instinctively pull back.

What is this overwhelming sense of darkness? It's… It's…!

No, that can't be possible. This boy... He must be a Sith!

Gojo grasps his lightsaber and swiftly ignites it, the hum of the blade cutting through the tension in the air. "Who are you?" he demanded, his voice firm and unwavering, as he paid no mind to the startled gazes of the other Jedi around who had quickly turned toward him.

The other Padawan, who was oh-so-casually reading a book by the window, glanced up at him with mild curiosity and amusement. “Hello there. I’m Sukuna. What seems to be the problem?”

"You're a Sith, aren't you? I can sense it... I know… I know that you are!"

"You must be mistaken," Sukuna said, his tone calm. "I’m a Jedi, just like you." His words carried an air of quiet certainty, as though he were simply stating a fact, not up for debate.

“Liar!”

"What's going on here?" another Jedi asked, stepping forward with a concerned expression. They gently gestured for Gojo to lower his lightsaber and take a step back, their tone firm and strict.

"Wait, what? Y-You can't feel it?" Gojo exclaimed, his voice thick with disbelief. He stared at the Jedi Knight in astonishment, as if struggling to comprehend how anyone could miss it. "This guy is practically reeking of darkness! It's overwhelming! I-It’s like nothing I've ever sensed before!"

"Padawan Gojo, it seems you're still feeling the effects of your last mission. Lower your lightsaber immediately, you're not in the right condition to continue."

“Not until this guy reveals who he truly is!”

“I said, saber down!”

Feeling defeated and completely alone in this fight, Gojo reluctantly deactivates his lightsaber, the hum of the blade fading into an unsettling silence. He notices the hushed murmurs that begin to spread among the crowd, their whispers like a growing storm. A frown forms on Gojo's face as he takes in the scene around him.

"Come along, Padawan," another Jedi Knight says, stepping closer with a concerned gaze. "Let’s head to the Halls of Healing, shall we? I’m sure you’ve taken quite a blow to the head during your last mission."

But Gojo hadn’t been harmed. His only injury was a bruise on his arm, and nothing more. Why couldn’t they sense this darkness? Couldn’t they feel the overwhelming, suffocating presence coming from the boy? Why were they unable to recognize the dark force emanating from Sukuna? Why?

It doesn’t make sense.

As he walked away, trailing behind the Jedi Knight, he paused and glanced back one final time at the Padawan.

Gojo’s blue eyes hardened as he caught sight of the boy’s twisted grin, his eyes gleaming an ominous shade of yellow, a stark reflection of the Sith lurking within.

Gojo’s heart spiked. That was the last time he ever saw those eyes.

As Gojo grew older, he began to convince himself that it had been nothing more than a hallucination. Maybe the sunlight had caught Sukuna's eyes in such a way that they seemed to shimmer, playing tricks on his mind.

But deep in his heart, he knew the truth.

By the time he attempts to take action, it had been too late.
 ~~~ Deep within the heart of Sith territory, the last Jedi remains captive, secluded in the Emperor's private chambers.A collar, designed to strip him of his connection to the Force, now adorns the once-promising Padawan's neck, who has been twisted into the role of "Empress" of the Sith.The Jedi gazes out at the stars, a silent ache in his heart for the freedom he once knew. He is aware of the whispers, simple rumours, of a rebellion stirring in the shadows. Once a single voice, now a chorus of millions.A faint rustle of bedsheets sounded behind him, followed by the warmth of a pair of arms slipping around his waist, tugging him back against a familiar chest. A low, teasing voice broke the silence. “Staring at the sky again, brat?”“Mhm.”"How many times must I remind you that clinging onto hope is a futile endeavor?"Futile? No. It never was.Soon, this swelling tide will rise, shaking the very foundations of the Sith Empire. The people will stand, defiant, against the iron grip of the Emperor.The voices may not be as strong now, but it will be. With time, their strength will grow until they overshadow the rule of the Emperor. A reign of tyranny that has spread its darkness across countless worlds in the galaxy.Clinging to hope is futile? No. It won’t be.But for now, the Jedi remains trapped in the Emperor’s embrace, waiting for the day when his cries of help will finally reach the ears of those willing to reach out, and freedom may once again be within his grasp.